POLICE are to increase patrols along the rivers of Darlington amid growing concerns that children are risking their lives by going swimming.
The announcement comes after police and Darlington-based Countryside Crime Watch first warned about the dangers earlier this month. Their worries are that children underestimate the risks posed by the cold water and currents and get into difficulties.
A key concern is the bridge over the River Skerne, at Barmpton, near the Whinfield estate.
Members of CCW, a crime prevention group. have encountered growing numbers of children using the area.
The group's chairman, Brian Pavey, a Darlington gamekeeper, said: "Since we issued the warning earlier this month, there have been at least 15 incidents of children swimming at the bridge."
Darlington police already has a team of officers working in the rural area surrounding the town and patrols will be increased along the Skerne and the Tees.
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