Canal boy remains critical

THE emergency services team at Rochdale Canal near Chadderton Hall Park

A 13-YEAR-OLD boy who fell into a canal is in a critical condition.

Police are investigating after the teenager almost drowned in the stretch of canal near to Boarshaw Clough Way, Middleton, at around 8pm on Sunday.

Police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and North-West Ambulance Services were called and he was recovered from the water and given CPR at the scene.

He was then taken to hospital for further treatment and his condition is currently critical.

The boy was playing with friends in and around the water.

Inspector Andy Butterworth, from GMP's Rochdale borough, said: "First of all, my thoughts are with the child and his family.

"We are now investigating how the boy came to fall into the water and we are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward.

"We will be supporting the boy's family and we hope to be able to give them all of the answers they deserve.

Dangerous

"We are reminding children and adults alike that the canals and waterways around Greater Manchester are extremely dangerous.

"We understand it can be very tempting, especially in this hot weather, to play in them but we don't want a repeat of this awful incident."

Pupils at St Anne's Academy in Middleton, where the youngster studies, are being supported by staff.

School principal, Caroline Preece, said: "The young man is a popular student here at St Anne's and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

"Academy staff are supporting our students."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161-856 68463, 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.