AN URGENT search has been launched to find a man who was last seen swimming in a river at a popular beauty spot.
Cops were called to the scene in Dinckley, Lancashire, at 12.58pm today after reports of a man in the River Ribble.
A frantic rescue operation was launched from Ribchester Road, which remains cordoned off.
Search and rescue officers, fire engines and a coastguard helicopter have been spotted.
Meanwhile Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed four of their swift water rescue units, two water sleds, and a boat with an underwater drone were in use.
An eyewitness told Lancashire Live: “The temperature of the water at this time of year is very cold.
“And the river can be dangerous due to the rocks on the riverbed.”
Another reported seeing a group of men canoeing on the river and said: “There were three men, in their 40s; two in one canoe and the third on his own in the other canoe.
“The river level is slightly above average but the current wasn’t especially fast. It can be difficult going down the river though because of the rocks and water depth.”
A Lancashire Police spokesperson said: “We were called to Ribchester Road, Dinckley, at 12.58pm today (21st December) after receiving concerns about the safety of a man last seen swimming in the River Ribble.
“A multi-agency rescue operation is ongoing and we would ask that the public avoid the area so emergency responders can safely carry out their work.
“Anyone with information which could assist the emergency response is asked to call 101 and quote log 590 of 21st December 2025.”
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: “At 13:02 on 21 December 2025, four fire engines from Barnoldwick, Nelson, Darwen and Clitheroe were called to a water rescue incident on Gisburn Road, Mitton, Clitheroe. Four swift water rescue units, two water sleds, and a boat utilising the underwater drone were in use. Crews remain in attendance.”
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