POLICE have warned people it is a criminal offence to jump from Devil's Bridge in Kirkby Lonsdale.

It comes as a result of police receiving reports of individuals jumping from the bridge due to the onset of warmer weather.

A statement from South Lakes Police read: “Many visitors and local may wish to enjoy the refreshing waters of the River Lune however, jumping from the bridge cannot be permitted.

"There is a byelaw in place that will be utilised if required to prosecute any individual who decides to undertake this dangerous act.

"We must also advocate for children not to attend the river unaccompanied. The riverbed around the bridge is deceptive and people have previously gotten into difficulty.

“Naturally, we want to ensure everyone can enjoy the river safely but when people disregard this byelaw and jump from the bridge - things often go wrong.

“When this happens a plethora of emergency services are deployed to an entirely avoidable set of circumstances and in turn are not available to deal with other emergency incidents."

22-year-old Darrel Teal from, Urmston, disappeared under the water after jumping from Devil’s Bridge in 2012.

His body was found a short distance downstream by rescue crews.

“We would urge people to be very cautious about entering bodies of water such as rivers, streams, lakes and reservoirs," added the police spokesman.

“Jumping in can be extremely dangerous, not only because of uncertainty about the depth of the water but also because of the possible impact of cold water shock.

“Those considering swimming in bodies of water are also urged to be extremely cautious as there may be no way of knowing what lies beneath the surface which could potentially entangle legs and lead to tragedy.”