Safety warning after boy (10) hospitalised in leap from river bridge

A WARNING has been issued by the district council after a boy suffered serious ankle injuries after jumping from a bridge into shallow waters in Brockenhurst.

The 10-year-old, who was reportedly on holiday in the area, had to be rushed to Southampton General Hospital for emergency surgery on Sunday afternoon after he leapt into the Lymington River near the Balmer Lawn Hotel.

In a statement New Forest District Council confirmed it was aware of an incident involving a young boy and wished him a full recovery.

The NFDC spokeswoman added: “We would always encourage parents to remind their children of the dangers of jumping into water from any height and the risk of harm this places them in.”

The land is owned by the Forestry Commission and the bridge by Hampshire County Council, while the Environment Agency (EA) has responsibility for the Lymington River.

She said NFDC had made the other agencies aware of the incident, adding: “We would fully support and share any messages by those agencies reminding people of the potential risks.”

Paul Separovic, the EA’s waterways team leader, added: “In partnership with local councils and landowners, we work to advise on the safety risks connected with our river structures.

“It is important that people know how to stay safe around these structures while enjoying being around water.”

He warned that “dangerous objects” could be hidden beneath the surface, so people should use designated crossings and keep safe by reading information boards and paying attention to warning signs.

“If you spot someone jumping off, swimming close to or damaging Environment Agency structures, report it by calling 0800 80 70 60,” he added.