Two rescued from park lake by firefighters

A man and a woman have been rescued from a Northampton lake, with one taken to hospital.

The fire service attended Delapre Park on Tuesday afternoon, where crews believed the man entered the water to help a woman in difficulty.

Specialist water-rescue firefighters helped the couple to the bank and they were left in the care of paramedics.

Northamptonshire fire service has urged people to avoid swimming in open water, unless it is in a designated area.

East Midlands Ambulance Service said it sent three paramedics in solo response cars and an ambulance.

"One patient was taken to Northampton General Hospital via ambulance," it said.

The fire service said people should not enter the water to rescue someone but to call 999, and to keep a close eye on children at all times.

"If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember - float to live," said a spokesperson.

"Tilt your head back, relax and control your breathing until you can call for help or reach safety."

Members of Delapre Park said there were "no swimming" signs in the area and urged people to take care.

West Northamptonshire Council, which owns the park, asked people to "think twice before entering lakes, rivers, reservoirs, pits, canals and other areas of open water".

Reform UK councillor Laura Couse, its cabinet member for adult care and public Health, said: "We understand that people are looking for ways to cool down during periods of hot weather, but entering open water can carry serious risks that are often underestimated.

"We are asking everyone to enjoy the summer safely, follow local safety advice, and choose supervised swimming facilities wherever possible."

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