23-05-2025
Lotus Bowker: Boy, 15, who died in river was 'lovely boy'
A 15-year-old boy who died after getting into difficulty in a Lancashire river "was such a lovely boy", his father has Bowker, from Kirkham, was found in the River Wyre near Garstang Cricket Club in Lancashire at about 14:30 BST on of the public tried to resuscitate him before he was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition. He died the following day, police tribute, his father David said "he meant the world to me, my wife, daughter and four sons" and warned about the dangers of swimming in rivers and open water.
"I wouldn't wish this on anyone. Those waters aren't meant to be swam in," he said."I want any individuals and especially youngsters to think twice before visiting these dangerous locations regardless of social pressures or feeling the need to be included."
Lancashire Police said the teenager's death was not being treated as in any way Insp Adie Knowles said: "First and foremost my thoughts remain with Lotus's loved ones at this incredibly difficult time."They have lost a son and brother in the most tragic of circumstances and I just want to echo David's words around water safety. "I'd just ask that people think twice before going into rivers, reservoirs or any form of open water. "You are unnecessarily putting your lives at risk, and I really don't want to have to knock on your parents door to tell them that you won't be coming home."
Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on BBC Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram and watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer.
