FIREFIGHTERS are warning people not to swim in Oxfordshire’s waterways as forecasters predict more hot weather later this month.

The warning came after the body of Gavin Dible, from Andover in Hampshire, was found in the River Thames near Abingdon Marina on Good Friday.

The 32-year-old had been on a boat trip with family members, including his children, when he went swimming in the river.

Forecasters predict this month could be the hottest May since modern records began in 1969, with temperatures nearing 30C.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging people not to swim in rivers, lakes, canals or isolated pools.

Paul Waknell, the service’s risk reduction officer, said: “If you swim in open water you’re putting yourself in danger. You may get into difficulty, even if you’re a strong swimmer.

“There might not be anyone else around that could help you and even if there is, that person may not be able to help you get out of danger.”

Open water can be extremely cold and unexpectedly deep with hidden currents, and swimmers can suffer from sudden hypothermia and cold-shock.

Judith Heathcoat, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for safer and stronger communities, said: “We all like to make the most of the hot weather, but swimming in rivers and canals where there’s nobody to help you can be really dangerous and not worth the risk.”

For more information about staying safe around waterways and lakes, see 365alive.co.uk