North Prudhoe councillor Angie Scott is reinforcing local MP Liz Twists’s request for a debate in the House of Commons on water safety.

Councillor Scott said: “As we approach summer we know water, such as our section of the River Tyne, is irresistible for young people but there are hidden dangers.

“I simply can’t imagine the sorrow of losing a child in this sort of accident. I want to pay tribute to Mr and Mrs Hattersley who set up a campaign on water safety after the tragic loss of their son Robert in July last year.

“I would also like to thank the council officers who I have been working with on this important issue. They have put up warning signs and provided a lifebuoy for the area. I would also like to thank emergency teams who are regularly hold training sessions at the riverside.

“Families who have lost a precious child in this way campaign because they don’t want any other family to have to deal with this type of devastating tragedy. We must do everything we can to keep our children safe near water, especially as we approach the warm summer months.”

The family are holding a community meeting at 7.30pm on the 17 May at the Fox and Hounds Pub in Crawcrook. If you can’t get to the meeting but would be interested in getting involved please email liz.twist.mp@parliament.uk and she will link you up with the family.