Police in North Yorkshire have released a shocking image of a large steel pole found embedded upright in a river to warn of the dangers of jumping into open water.

The pole was found by divers in the underwater search and marine unit for North, South, West Yorkshire and Humberside.

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It was found last week embedded in the riverbed and pointing upwards about one metre below the waterline under a bridge.

The Northern Echo: The steel pole found by police divers Picture: YaTHMarineUnit The steel pole found by police divers Picture: YaTHMarineUnit

Officers have used the find to highlight the hidden dangers of open water, saying the pole, which wasn't visible above the water, could have caused a swimmer serious injury or worse had they unwittingly jumped from the bridge onto it.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "Just imagine the consequences if somebody had jumped into that water.

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"Open water comes with numerous risks, including cold water shock, contamination, hidden dangers and unknown depths.

"So please enjoy the safe swimming facilities our region has to offer, and take extra care to ensure the safety of yourself, your friends and your family."

The Northern Echo: The steel pole found by police divers Picture: YaTHMarineUnit The steel pole found by police divers Picture: YaTHMarineUnit

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