Dovestone sergeant heartbreak appeal

A heartbroken police sergeant has made a poignant appeal after a tragedy at a Saddleworth beauty spot where an 18-years-old boy drowned on Friday evening.

Sergeant Andy Holian, Neighbourhood sergeant for Saddleworth, said: ”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

He added: "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:

"Hidden Perceptions: Deep water remains freezing cold just below the surface, which can cause sudden cold water shock, even for the strongest swimmers.Undercurrents & Machinery: Reservoirs have hidden machinery, sudden drops, and strong undercurrents that cannot be seen from the bank.
 
"Look Out for Each Other: Please, talk to your children, teenagers, and loved ones about these dangers. Know where they are spending their time  and urge them to stay completely out of the water.
 
"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.

"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.

"Hidden Traps: The concrete chute contains steep drops, high-velocity water, and hidden, deep plunge pools designed to absorb the water's energy.
 
"No Escape: The stone walls are incredibly slick with moss and algae. Once inside, there are no handholds or footholds, making it virtually impossible to climb out without emergency assistance.
 
"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."