The heartbroken family of a 16-year-old girl who drowned at a popular beauty spot during the heatwave have said they will be "forever heartbroken."
Lillianna Tomlinson lost her life after getting into difficulties at Kingsbury Water Park near Tamworth, Staffordshire, on Bank Holiday Monday, 25 May.
Emergency rescue teams rushed to the scene at 6:10 pm and spent over an hour searching the lake before her body was retrieved at 7:20 pm.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses reported that the teenager had been part of a group of young people jumping from a bridge into the water when she vanished beneath the surface. Those present described her father "frantically" pacing up and down the riverbank before plunging into the water in a desperate bid to locate her.
Family Statement
In an official statement, her family said: "We're deeply saddened to be writing that Lillianna's life has been taken in the most tragic way. Our family is completely devastated and will be forever heartbroken.
"We would like to take a moment to sincerely thank our community for the love, compassion and support that has been shown to us, and for sharing in our grief - it means more than words can express.
"During this incredibly difficult time, we kindly ask for privacy while we come to terms with what has happened."
Wider Context
A total of 15 children have perished in UK rivers during the recent heatwave which saw record-breaking temperatures.
Chief Inspector Ben Hembry, North Warwickshire Area Commander, said: "We are desperate to get the message across for people to stay out of open bodies of water."
