How to stay safe in lakes and rivers in Milton Keynes after tragic death

Following the unexplained death of a man in the Great River Ouse on Monday May 31, the authorities have warned against the dangers of open water swimming.

Thames Valley Police confirmed a man lost his life after being pulled out from the river at the rear of East Street in Olney - read the full story here.

This was the second death involving someone swimming in a local river in Buckinghamshire. In response the Bucks Fire and Rescue Service issued the following statement: "Please don’t be tempted to take a dip in rivers, lakes or canals, whatever the weather.

"Even good swimmers can be caught out by cold water and hidden dangers such as fast currents, deep holes, soft mud, weeds or rubbish.

What you SHOULD NOT do

- "Never swim, even where allowed, after drinking alcohol

- "Avoid walking on routes near water if you have been drinking alcohol

- "Don’t dive or jump straight into open water – this can cause potentially fatal cold water shock even on the warmest day