A CORONER has warned of the dangers of swimming and water sports in unsuitable areas following the death of a Longridge youth while canoeing in a reservoir.

And Michael Singleton, acting coroner for Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley, has urged all parents to be extra vigilant as the hot weather and the school holidays raise the possibility of further tragedies.

Mr Singleton said he was greatly concerned that the first spell of hot weather for some time had already brought about a water-related tragedy.

"I have a great fear there will be further tragedies involving the loss of young life in circumstances similar to those that claimed the life of Graham Lambert," said Mr Singleton. "The grief that can be brought about by this kind of incident is incalculable. If it can be avoided by extra care then I would commend to everyone, especially parents, to be that bit more vigilant."

The inquest into the death of Mr Lambert, of Higher Road, Longridge, was told that the medical cause of death had been established as drowning. The inquest was adjourned until October 8.

Mr Lambert had been with friends on Spade Mill Reservoir, Lower Road, Longridge, on Wednesday. He came out of a canoe and disappeared under the water. His body was recovered the following day by the police underwater search team.

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