Boy in critical condition after nearly drowning in canal in Middleton

Emergency services at the canal near to Boarshaw Clough Way in Middleton

A 13-year-old boy is in critical condition in hospital having nearly drowned after falling into the canal at Coney Green Lock in Middleton as he was playing with friends in and around the water.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and North West Ambulance Services were called shortly after 8.00pm on Sunday.

The boy 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 understood to be critical.

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.

"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."

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