Skating on reservoirs is ‘snow joke’

Don't let your white Christmas dreams become a nightmare by taking chances on iced-up lakes.

That's the warning from water bosses who want people to stay safe while having fun in the snow.

Sledging in and near lakes is not a good idea, said a spokesman for the North West’s water company United Utilities.

United Utilities owns more reservoirs than almost anyone else in the country, with sites from Cumbria in the north to Cheshire in the south.

"We love having people on our land but we would hate anyone to get hurt.

“There are lots of great places to enjoy sledging, but a steep hill with a reservoir at the bottom is not one of them. You could end up in the water by accident and the chances are you might not get out.

“And if the water itself freezes over, for goodness sake never set foot on it. It will be thin and fractured in places but you won't know where until it's too late.

“Stay safe and just enjoy the view instead."

Dog walkers are also urged not to encourage their pooches onto the ice.