Emergency services rush to Heaton Park over fears of someone struggling in 'dangerous' reservoir

A huge emergency services response rushed to Heaton Park on Sunday afternoon over fears of someone struggling in the water. It is understood that crews headed for the reservoir beside the St Margaret's entrance after they were informed somebody who was swimming was facing difficulties.

However when they arrived, firefighters carried out a full search of the water at the north Manchester park and didn't find anyone in need of help. Onlookers reported seeing the huge response speed into the car park shortly before 4pm on Sunday (March 20).

The fire service has since confirmed that the person in the water had, on this occasion, been able to pull themselves to safety and leave the area before emergency crews arrived. However, they have today issued a stark warning on the dangers of cold reservoir waters in the region.

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Witnesses reported seeing fire crews from the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Greater Manchester Police as well as paramedics and a water incident team. Pictures from the scene show a large number of emergency vehicles parked up near the reservoir, before they left the scene at around 4.45pm.

The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue service confirmed that a 999 call had been made in relation to someone swimming and struggling in the reservoir, but following a thorough search, no such person was found. The fire service also told the M.E.N that there was no evidence to suggest it had been a hoax call and that the person had swam to safety unaided.

A witness told the MEN : "Me, my girlfriend and two daughters had been out at Heaton Park and were heading back to the car. Suddenly, we saw all the