Police in South Ayrshire are warning people about the risks of swimming in rivers and reservoirs

Chief Inspector Brian Anderson, Local Area Commander for South Ayrshire, said: “We have recognised an increase in incidents involving young people congregating and socialising with friends along various part of the River Doon in Ayr between Doonfoot and Alloway.

“Thankfully, no one has been hurt or injured. We have started to see incidents being reported which involve the consumption of alcohol and open water swimming along the river. The dangers of this are obvious.”

Throughout the summer, South Ayrshire Police will be working with South Ayrshire Community Safety, South Ayrshire Council, Scottish Fire and Rescue Services and Ayr Coastguard to help keep everyone safe.

Brian added: “I ask that all of our young people do not swim in our open bodies of water across Ayrshire and that parents and guardians encourage their children to follow this advice.

“If you do see someone in difficulty in the water, keep watching them so that you know where they are, reassure them and if there is a buoyancy aid then throw them this. Do not enter the water and call 999 immediately.”