Welwyn Hatfield residents have been urged not to swim in Stanborough Lakes this summer over safety concerns.

The warning has been issued by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, who were quick to remind people that according to Royal Life Saving Society, around 700 people lose their lives to drowning every year.

The park on the outskirts on Welwyn Garden City is a popular spot in the summer months, with Councillor Max Holloway, executive member for community to "put their safety first" when they visit the lakes.

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"Whilst we appreciate with the warm weather recently it can be tempting to take a dip to cool down, we strongly urge members of our community to put their safety first and not to swim at Stanborough Lakes," he said.

"There are lots of safe ways to enjoy the area and the lakes themselves."

WHBC has asked those that want to open swim to sign up for supervised open water swimming sessions, which take place every Wednesday evening from 6pm to 8pm, and Saturday from 8am to 10am.

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Swimming in the lakes outside these times is not permitted.

Stanborough Lakes is operated by Better, with their partnership manager, Vishal Karia, adding: "We are calling on residents to be sensible this summer, even when it’s tempting to want to cool off in open water. 

"There are numerous risks and even competent swimmers can be taken unawares by the shock of cold water and the variable depth of the water.

"We do have supervised open water swimming, and organised paddleboard sessions which we’d encourage people to find out more about on the website."

To find out more about supervised open water swimming sessions, visit better.org.uk/leisure-centre/welwyn-hatfield/stanborough-park-water-sports-centre/activities.