Boy, 11, disappears entering river sparking major search operation in Mexborough | News UK

A major search has been launched for an 11-year-boy who disappeared after entering the River Don in South Yorkshire.

Emergency crews were called to Ferry Boat Lane in Mexborough at 8pm yesterday to reports the young boy had entered the water.

A specialist search operation is ongoing involving th National Police Air Service, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, and the Yorkshire Ambulance Service.

The boy’s family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Members of the public have been asked to avoid area while enquiries continue.

Response team inspector Neil Pryce said: ‘We know, from witnesses and items left on the riverbank, where the boy entered the water.

‘Utilising specialist knowledge and skills, a coordinated multi-agency operation is underway and we are doing everything we can to find this young man.

‘We are invaluably assisted by an underwater search team, supported from above by the police helicopter and drones.

‘This is a tragic incident and we understand that members of the public want to do all they can to help but we must ask that, for everyone’s safety, only those who are involved in our operation enter the River Don.

‘To give the boy and his family the dignity they deserve, we ask that people do not spectate or film the search operation.’

Some 15 people have drowned in waterways across the country over the heatwave.

A 19-year-old man died on Thursday after entering Balderton Lake in Nottinghamshire.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

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