Body found in search for man who ‘got into difficulty’ while swimming in lake during heatwave

A BODY has been found in a search for a man who “got into difficulty” in a lake in Doncaster as temperatures soared today.

Fire, police and ambulance crews raced to Lakeside earlier today along with a helicopter after an urgent search was launched.

Sadly a man’s body was found.

South Yorkshire Police said tonight:  “We are very sorry to report that following earlier information about an incident at Lakeside, Doncaster, a body has now been found.

“Emergency services responded to the lake at around 4.10pm today, after receiving calls that a man, aged in his 20s, had got in to difficulty in the water.

“No formal identification has yet taken place. The man’s family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.”

Lynne Lawrence said she heard a police aeroplane circulating for half an hour, and later saw a helicopter had landed.

She said: “All I heard was some young guys had gone in the lake… the rescue workers were stood on the shore looking at the lake.”

Dozens of messages were sent to South Yorkshire Fire And Rescue Service from residents hoping for a safe outcome and sending their best wishes to the fire service.

One person wrote: “Pray that you find the male and he is safe and well. Thank you to all agency’s who have attend this incident.”

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said at 5.30pm today: “Emergency services are on scene at Lakeside, Doncaster.

“At around 4.20pm, we were called to concerns that a man had got into difficulty in water. 

“Numerous agencies have responded and specialist teams are doing everything they can do find him.

“Please avoid the area.”