A North East mum has expressed her concern after children “almost drowned” in a deep pool that appeared in a popular swimming spot as the fire service now urges others to avoid the area.

A mum has warned others to avoid Skelton Beck in Saltburn after she spotted and helped multiple children getting into difficulties in a 6ft deep pool that had appeared following torrential rain.

Pictures from August 10 show children swimming in the unsupervised beck after days of torrential rain, using inflatables and paddleboards as their parents sat on the nearby slope.

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The Northern Echo: Skelton Beck in Saltburn.Skelton Beck in Saltburn. (Image: ELIZABETH THORNTON)

Elizabeth Thornton, from Brotton, told the Echo that she witnessed one girl “almost drown” as she states further signage needs to be put up to warn the public of the dangers of the water.

She said: “We went a couple of days after the days of heavy rain and floods through the valley. I had taken my son and his friend (both are strong swimmers) to the beach for the day.

“We all went for a paddle in the beck, I always go in myself as I know the depth can change a lot after a heavy rain. In the centre, there was a steep drop in the pool which was at least 6ft deep at the time.

“Many young children, without any floating aids were paddling in the beck and soon found themselves out of their depth and panicking. I pulled 3 children out while swimming myself and witnessed a young girl almost drown.

“In the end, her mother ran down the beach fully dressed and had to pull them both out. There is one very aged sign warning of deep water and no life ring close by; the area isn't covered by a lifeguard.”

Following what she saw, Elizabeth said “someone could lose their life” due to the lack of signage warning swimmers of the dangers.

She added: “There is one very aged sign, which I only noticed after being there all day.

“New signs are a must to warn people of the changing depth. A life ring installed on the small bridge or boat park would be even better, as the nearest is either at the ship or on the pier.”

The Northern Echo approached Cleveland Fire Brigade for a reaction to the image, who have said they do not recommend swimming in the beck.

The Northern Echo: Skelton Beck, Saltburn.Skelton Beck, Saltburn. (Image: ELIZABETH THORNTON)

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A spokesperson issued the following advice: “At this time of year, it can be very tempting to cool off in the water, however, people should take extra care and follow local water safety advice.

“Young people are most vulnerable, as many are unaware of the dangers of jumping into waters and are prone to taking risks in unsafe waters without adults around.

“If you are out and about around Cleveland, you can stay safe by never jumping into or swimming in open water. This includes reservoirs, rivers, canals, ponds, and becks. 

“We wouldn’t advise swimming in becks like Skelton Beck which is shown in the image.”

Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council has been approached for comment.