TRAGIC INCIDENT AT DOVESTONE RESERVOIR

It is with a truly heavy heart that I write to share some devastating news from yesterday evening.

Following an emergency call, my neighbourhood team and I responded to a serious incident at Dovestone Reservoir. 

This was the second call to reports of a person in the water in one day, the first being at Dowry Reservoir. 

We were on scene alongside colleagues from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS), Oldham Mountain Rescue Team, the GMP Drone Unit, and neighbouring neighbourhood policing teams.

Tragically, despite the tireless and coordinated efforts of all the emergency services involved, a young boy lost his life.

Our deepest, most heartfelt condolences go out to the young man’s family, friends, and everyone affected by this unimaginable tragedy. Our thoughts are entirely with them during this profoundly difficult time.

A Urgent Reminder on Open Water Safety

While reservoirs and open waters can look calm and inviting, especially during warmer weather, they hold hidden, lethal dangers. We implore everyone in our community to hear this message:

It is apparent that the spillway which rises above the reservoir is used as a giant slide and has been for many years, however it is not a slide and must never be used as such. 

A Critical Warning

While it looks exactly like an epic water slide and social media videos often show people looking at it or dangerously attempting to slide down, you must never slide down it.

I make no apology for the long post on this occasion, we as a community must look after one another and ensure an absolute tragedy like this does not happen again. Stay safe, and stay away from open water.

Regards

PS 1650 Andy Holian - Neighbourhood Sergeant for Saddleworth and Lees

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