Suzie Gough, the mother of 11-year-old Mackenzie Swift who drowned in the River Don near Mexborough during last month's heatwave, is pleading with parents to keep their children away from open water as temperatures soar again this week.
Mackenzie's Disappearance
Mackenzie, known as Kenzie, was playing with friends at 'Pebble Beach' on the River Don on May 30 when he entered the water. He was unable to swim and failed to resurface, prompting a large-scale search.
Suzie, 49, was at home watching TV when police knocked on her door. 'I had no idea he had gone there,' she said. 'I was watching TV inside with my other son and baby grandson. He never ventured as far before as he was only allowed to stay on my street or the one over.'
Michael Swift, 46, Mackenzie's father, ran a mile to the river after hearing the news. He found Kenzie's t-shirt and trainers by the riverbank. Mackenzie's body was found 48 hours later on June 2.
Mother's Warning
Speaking out as the UK braces for another heatwave with potential temperatures of 40°C, Suzie urged parents to warn their children about the dangers of open water. 'Open water is not a joke, lives can be changed in an instant,' she said. 'I urge parents to tell their children not to go into the water.'
Mackenzie was one of 13 children and six adults who drowned during the last week of May, according to reports.
Tribute and Petition
The family has launched a petition to rename Ferry Boat Wharf Footbridge, located just 20 metres from where Mackenzie died, to 'Kenzie's Bridge' in his memory. The bridge has been decorated with yellow flowers and tributes, as yellow was his favourite colour.
'The bridge being renamed will not only be a tribute, but a reminder to parents and children of the dangers of open water,' Suzie said. Yellow ribbons and floral tributes now adorn the bridge, serving as a poignant reminder of the tragedy.
Inquest Details
An inquest into Mackenzie's death opened at Doncaster Coroner's Court on June 11. His father identified his body. Coroner's officer Siobhan Golightly noted that 'the pathologist noted features in keeping with drowning.' A final inquest is scheduled for February 16 next year.
Suzie recalled her last words to her son: 'Don't go too far, I need you back home in an hour.' She added, 'I never saw him again.'
