Local authorities across Bucks have joined forces with an Olympic swimmer to warn people about the dangers of open water.

Following the tragic death of a girl from High Wycombe at Bournemouth beach last month, local authorities including Bucks Council and Thames Valley Police have joined forces to warn people about the dangers of open water ahead of the school summer holidays.

They are working alongside Olympic gold medallist Tom Dean, who won the 200-metre freestyle at the 2020 summer games, to bring awareness to school children across the Thames Valley.

It also comes after data from the National Water Safety Form showed that 60% of the 151 accidental drownings that took place across England in 2022 happened at inland bodies of water, similar to those across Buckinghamshire.

Speaking in a clip that will be shown in classrooms across the region, Tom said: “When it comes to swimming, the safest way is always to do it in a manmade body of water – a pool or a lido with a group of experienced lifeguards right there.

"With open water swimming, one thing that I always stress is how important it is to always go out with a group of people. Never, ever swim in open water bodies alone.”

Over the coming summer months, the participating authorities will hold joint patrols of riverside areas and run safety events on hot days when the risk of incidents may be higher.

Thomas Broom, deputy cabinet member for community safety at Buckinghamshire Council, said: “As tempting as it may be when it’s hot outside, we would urge people to be sensible and only venture into the water where and when it is safe to do so.

“Any area of open water can have hidden dangers that you don’t become aware of until it is too late.”

Adding: "There are lots of places where you can swim safely outdoors or indoors in Buckinghamshire, so please make sure you follow the advice to keep you and your family and friends safe in the water this summer."

James Ellis, neighbourhood inspector at Thames Valley Police, added that the initiative was targeting young people in particular because they were "less likely to engage with messages from statutory agencies".

He added: "When someone finds themselves in difficulty in the water, it's terrifying for those involved and brings together all agencies as life savers.

"No life should be lost to the water and I really hope this work ensures everyone can enjoy the water safely."