Warning after boy drowns

The boy was taken to the University Hospital of North Durham

Campaigners have warned swimmers away from rivers after a boy drowned in County Durham.

Liam Robinson, 12, died in the River Browney, at Sunderland Bridge, in Croxdale, on Wednesday.

The youngster, from Ferryhill in County Durham, was with friends, when the alarm was raised and a passer-by pulled him from the water.

Paramedics began resuscitation until a police helicopter arrived and took the unconscious boy to the University Hospital of North Durham.

Roger Vincent, spokesman for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (Rospa) said: "Our message is, don't go in any river, even if it is a traditional swimming place.

"This is our first warm summer spell we have had and, in the first few days we have had tragedies despite warnings.

'Tragic accident'

"The idea is that you should not swim unless it is properly supervised.

"Parents should not encourage their children to paddle in rivers.

"These types of tragedies are something we dread, year after year."

A spokesman for Durham Police said attempts to resuscitate the boy continued aboard the aircraft, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at hospital.

He said: "All the indications are that this was a tragic accident, but obviously there will have to be an inquest in due course.

"Unfortunately, it does illustrate the potential dangers for swimmers even in what seems to be clear water on a bright, sunny day."