Girl who died in Carrbrook drowning named

A GIRL who died in a tragic drowning in Stalybridge has been named as Lucy Smith.

The 14-year-old got into difficulty in water belonging to Carrbrook Angling Club at Crowswood Drive on Monday evening.

After emergency services attended en masse, her body was recovered later that night.

Now a file about Lucy’s death has been passed to South Manchester Coroners Court ahead of an inquest being held at a later date.

Dozens of tributes have been left by family and friends at the scene of the tragedy, which a number of relatives have attended in person.

Greater Manchester Police said they did not believe there were any suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.

And both the force and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service reiterated warnings for people not to swim in open water.

Detective Inspector Steven Horton, of GMP’s Tameside CID, said: “Monday evening’s events are nothing short of devastating and my thoughts are with the friends and family of the young girl who lost her life in such awful circumstances.

“We are doing all we can to support the girl’s family at this incredibly difficult time, and we are focused on ensuring they get the answers they deserve as to how this tragedy occurred.

“From our enquiries so far, we are confident that there are no suspicious circumstances and that this is such a sad reminder of the dangers of entering open water, whatever the weather.”

A GMFRS spokesperson said: “At around 6.30pm on Monday, August 15, firefighters were called out to Crowswood Drive, Carrbrook to reports of a girl getting into difficulty in the water.

“A number of fire service teams, including a boat crew, underwater drone and Technical Response Unit, worked with other emergency service search teams into the night at the scene.

“Shortly before 11pm, a body was recovered from the water by a police diving team. The incident has now been handed over to Greater Manchester Police to investigate.

“This is an absolutely heartbreaking incident. The thoughts of everyone at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are with the girl who has sadly lost her life, and her family and friends at this tragic time.

“We urge everyone to be alert to the dangers of open water and to not jump into it or swim in it unless it’s an organised event.”

Stalybridge’s Copley Academy, where Lucy attended, has paid tribute to one of its pupils.

The Huddersfield Road establishment said: “Copley Academy are aware of the devastating news that a young member of our academy community sadly lost their life after getting into difficulty in open water on Monday evening.

“We want to offer our deepest sympathy to all of those involved in this tragedy.

“Our hearts and thoughts go out to the families, friends and local community affected at this extremely sad time.

“Copley would like to offer our support and also the support of a specialist team. To access this support or if you need anything else please let us know.”