Warning: Northamptonshire's reservoirs can be killers in hot weather

Anglian Water is urging swimmers to resist the temptation to take a dip in reservoirs as temperatures soar in Northamptonshire this week.

Weather watchers are forecasting thermometers could hit 34°C in the county on Wednesday and Thursday.Indoor leisure pools are still closed by the Covid-19 crisis so the water company fears many could head outdoors to open water to cool off.

Parks including those at Pitsford, Hollowell and Ravensthorpe recently reopened to visitors following the Covid-19 lockdown but Anglian Water's David Hartley warned: "Swimming in our reservoirs is illegal.

"It might seem appealing to dive into the cool water on a hot day but they are operational sites, and can be extremely dangerous for even the strongest swimmer."

"Even more than usual this year, with the current measures in place around social distancing and the added pressures on our emergency services, we are urging people not to put themselves at unnecessary risk.

"There are many other activities available at our parks out of the water available like scenic walking and cycling routes, angling, and much more so there is still plenty to enjoy safely."

DON'T FORGET: You can check the latest weather forecasts on the Chronicle & Echo website in association with @NNweather HERE.

Strong currents in reservoirs and hidden machinery just below the surface can trap swimmers.

Unexpectedly cold temperatures in large bodies of open water can also cause cold water shock resulting in involuntary inhalation of water, often resulting in drowning.

For further information about what is available at each of Anglian Water's waterparks, please visit www.anglianwaterparks.co.uk.

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper when you do your weekly shop.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world. But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you.