Girl dies after being rescued from River Wharfe in Yorkshire Dales

Girl dies after being rescued from River Wharfe in Yorkshire Dales

A 13-year-old girl tragically passed away in hospital after being rescued from the River Wharfe near Burnsall, a scenic spot in North Yorkshire. The teenager was reported missing at around 18:30 BST on Sunday evening. Following a swift search, she was located and pulled from the water. Despite immediate efforts from bystanders and the rapid arrival of an air ambulance, the authorities later confirmed her death.

Burnsall, situated in the popular outdoor area of Wharfedale north of Skipton, attracts many visitors for recreational activities. The recent heatwave has been linked to at least 15 water-related fatalities across the region, highlighting the increased dangers faced at local waterways during hot weather. Julian Smith, the MP for Skipton and Ripon, expressed his condolences and gratitude towards the emergency services and local community who assisted during the rescue. In a social media post, he shared his sympathies, stating: “This morning all my thoughts, prayers and wishes are with the family of the young girl who died in Burnsall yesterday. I was so sorry and sad to hear this horrific and devastating news.”

In a related incident, a woman in her 60s died after entering water in Thornton Cleveleys on Saturday, accompanied by a man of a similar age, as they attempted to rescue their dog. Lancashire Police reported that the man remains in critical condition in hospital. Meanwhile, in South Yorkshire, emergency teams continued to conduct searches into the early hours for a boy reported missing in the River Don. The boy had entered the water in Mexborough around 20:00 BST on Saturday but was not seen exiting.

South Yorkshire Police involved various rescue teams including underwater and mountain rescue units in the ongoing search efforts covering the river, riverbanks, and surrounding areas. The boy’s family is receiving support from the police, who also urged the public to avoid the site to ensure search operations could proceed without hindrance. These events underscore the serious risks linked to water recreation, especially during periods of extreme heat

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