Fiona Gosling, whose 14-year-old son Cameron drowned in the River Wear in Bishop Auckland in July 2015, has described organising his funeral as "the worst thing you could ever imagine." She is speaking out again ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, 2026, to highlight the dangers of swimming and jumping into open water.
Cameron, from Crook, died after jumping from a rock into the river and suffering cold water shock, which can affect breathing and movement. His mother said: "We waited seven hours before we got the knock to say they had found Cameron and from that point life changes instantly." She urged parents to talk to their children about water safety, saying it is "really worth it."
Fire Service Urges Caution
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) is warning people not to enter open water and to follow the ‘Phone, Float, Throw’ advice if they see someone in difficulty. Station Manager Gary Tough said: "The school summer holidays have now begun, so it is more important than ever that people are aware of the dangers of cold water shock. It can be so tempting to cool off in the water when it’s warm and sunny, but the reality is that it will still be extremely cold - even on the hottest of days."
He added that hidden dangers such as strong currents and rocks exist beneath the surface. If someone finds themselves in difficulty, they should float on their back, tilt their head back, and use their hands to stay afloat before calling for help or steering towards shore. If others see someone in trouble, they should phone 999, ask for the fire service, and throw something that floats — never enter the water themselves.
Free Swimming Sessions Offered
Durham County Council is offering free swimming for under-18s living in County Durham on World Drowning Prevention Day at nine leisure centres, including Chester-le-Street, Consett, Freeman's Quay, and others. A thrive card is required, which can be applied for at centres or online.
David Gray, Chair of the County Durham Open Water Safety Group and the council’s Health and Safety Manager, said: "We’ve had some gorgeous weather lately and if the forecasts are to be believed, that is set to continue. We hope everyone enjoys it. It’s just really important that people are aware of just how dangerous open water can be... remember what happened to Cameron and the sense of loss that his family are still having to live with more than ten years on."
