It started as a peaceful day at a south Manchester beauty spot... and ended in tragedy

A South Manchester beauty spot became the scene of a tragedy today (March 21) after police found a body in the water.

Emergency services descended on Chorlton Water Park this morning after reports of a body in the River Mersey - close to the water park.

Sadly a body was later recovered by police. No other details about the nature of the incident or the identity of the person have been revealed. Enquiries are said to be ongoing.

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After the tragic discovery was made, a forensic tent was erected by the side of the River Mersey that runs next to the water park.

Normally a route used by dog walkers, joggers and cyclists, the footpath running along the river was taken over by forensics officers and blocked by police tape.

Fire engines and police vehicles lined the water park’s central lake adjacent to the river as TAU, CSI and water unit officers worked alongside one another at the scene.

In a statement, a spokesperson for GMP said: "At around 11.10am today (21 March 2024), emergency services responded to reports of a body in the River Mersey, close to Chorlton Water Park. Officers attended and a body was recovered from the water. Enquiries are ongoing."

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said it was called out at 11.15am to support Greater Manchester Police at the scene. Two fire engines from Stretford and Moss Side attended the incident off Maitland Avenue, Chorlton.