**Woman in Her 30s Tragically Dies After Getting Into Difficulty Swimming in River Avon Near Bath**
A woman has lost her life after encountering trouble while swimming in the River Avon near the Bathampton area, just outside Bath. The incident occurred on Friday evening and has prompted a formal investigation, with a report now being compiled for the coroner.
Eyewitnesses at the scene described how the usually tranquil river became the focus of a major emergency services operation. Numerous police cars, fire engines, and ambulances were reported descending on Grosvenor Bridge Road, turning the riverside area into a hive of activity as responders rushed to the scene.
According to official reports, the emergency call was made shortly before 7.20pm on 11 July, when it was first reported that a woman in her 30s had encountered difficulties in the water near the footbridge on Grosvenor Bridge Road. Avon and Somerset Police stated that she had been seen swimming close to the bridge shortly before the incident unfolded.
Emergency services—including teams from Avon Fire and Rescue Service and the South Western Ambulance Service, as well as officers supported by a National Police Air Service helicopter—initiated a comprehensive search in hopes of locating the missing swimmer. Authorities cordoned off both the riverside footpaths and nearby roads to ensure that search efforts could continue without further complications.
Tragically, at around 8.15pm, fire and rescue crews located the woman in the water. Despite their best efforts, she could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later. Police have confirmed that the woman’s next of kin have been notified and extended their condolences, acknowledging the profound impact this loss will have on her loved ones.
At present, officials do not consider the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death to be suspicious. However, as is protocol in such cases, a file will be prepared for the coroner who will further examine the details as part of the forthcoming inquest.
This heartbreaking incident has led authorities and safety organisations to reiterate advice regarding the hidden dangers of open water swimming, especially in rivers. Both the fire service and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) urge the public to remain aware of cold water shock, which can strike when entering water below 15 degrees Celsius—even on warm days. The temperature of rivers in the UK can often be significantly colder than the average sea temperature, which typically hovers around 12 degrees Celsius.
Cold water shock is a serious risk and can cause a number of physiological reactions, including involuntary gasping, rapid heart rate, and in some tragic cases, heart attacks, even in younger and otherwise healthy individuals. Authorities advise against jumping or diving into rivers without acclimatising, stressing the importance of respecting local guidance and ensuring safety measures are in place before entering any body of water.
This latest tragedy will likely renew calls for increased public awareness around the dangers of swimming in open water, particularly during the summer months when more people seek relief in rivers and lakes. As the summer progresses, emergency services are expected to issue further reminders about water safety to try and prevent further loss of life.
If you have been affected by this story or have concerns about water safety, local authorities encourage you to seek advice and support, and to be mindful of the risks posed by Britain’s rivers and waterways. This devastating incident serves as a reminder for everyone to exercise extreme caution while enjoying natural beauty spots.