Body found in search for missing dad in reservoir

Shannen Headley
BBC News, West Midlands
BBC A red rescue boat with a person in it on a reservoir. Trees are seen behind the water.BBC
An "intensive" search had been undertaken by specialist crews since Thursday afternoon

A body has been found in a reservoir during the search for a man after a boat capsized.

It is believed to be the man who fell into the water with his son at Draycote Water, near Rugby, on Thursday afternoon.

The man's teenage son was rescued by two members of the public and was not injured.

Warwickshire Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious.

An "intensive" search operation took place at the 240-hectare (600-acre) reservoir on Thursday, with specialist search tactics and technology used, said the force.

An update on the search was put out shortly before 23:45 BST on Friday.

Chief Inspector Angus Eagles said: "Our thoughts are very much with the man's family at this incredibly difficult time and I would ask that their privacy continues to be respected.

"I don't underestimate the impact this tragic incident and the large-scale search operation will have had on local people and businesses.

"Thank you all for your patience and understanding while our officers worked tirelessly to find the man."

Chief Insp Eagles also thanked Warwickshire Fire and Rescue, Warwickshire Search and Rescue, West Mercia Search and Rescue, Avon Fire and Rescue Service, West Mercia Police and Severn Trent.

He said they had all played an "integral role" in supporting the extensive search efforts.

A spokesperson for Draycote Water said it would remain shut on Saturday, having been closed since the incident.

This includes the sailing club, fishing club and restaurant.

Watersports such as sailing and windsurfing are popular at the site, and it also attracts anglers.

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