Man dies after river rescue drama

A man has died after getting into difficulties while in a river on the Shropshire-North Wales border.

Emergency services were called to an isolated location near the confluence of the Rivers Dee and Ceiriog, near Chirk, shortly before 7pm last night.

A search was carried out involving officers from West Mercia Police and North Wales Police and the man was located in the water at around 7.50pm.

He was airlifted to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital where he was pronounced dead late last night.

The Fire and Rescue Service and Ambulance Service also attended and the North Wales Police helicopter assisted in the search.

The man has not yet been named but is believed to a 21-year-old from Shropshire.

West Mercia Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances and renewed warnings about swimming or cooling off in open water.

A force spokesperson said: “There have been a number of recent tragedies in Shropshire and neighbouring counties where people have got into difficulties after entering rivers or quarry pools.

“Please don't be tempted.  These types of water can be highly dangerous with strong under currents, low temperatures which can cause muscle cramps and hidden obstacles beneath the surface.

“Sadly, we are now dealing with another such tragedy.”