HEARTBROKEN friends and family have paid tribute to an “amazing” mum-of-three who tragically died after getting into difficulty at a reservoir.
The body of 33-year-old Kimberley Johnson, known as Kim, was pulled from Strinesdale Reservoir near Oldham on Sunday, August 17.
Emergency services rushed to the beauty spot on the A62 between Oldham and Delph after reports of a woman struggling in the water at around 4pm.
Police sealed off the area while fire crews, paramedics and the specialist water rescue unit battled to find her.
Despite desperate efforts, Kim was confirmed dead shortly after being recovered from the water at 6.25pm.
Greater Manchester Police said there are no suspicious circumstances. A spokesperson confirmed: “Emergency services responded to an incident at Strinesdale Reservoir at around 4:50pm yesterday after reports of a woman getting into difficulty in the water.
“Sadly, the body of a woman was recovered.
“There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.”
The tragedy has rocked the local community, with tributes pouring in for the young mum, who was described as kind, soft-spoken and full of life.
Her close friend Tanya Kennedy told how Kim “always lit up every room” and had been a constant source of support and inspiration to those around her.
Tanya said: “Kim was such an amazing woman, she took me in when I was younger and from there she always treated me like a sister.
“I really wish I could speak to her one last time.
“I absolutely adore Kim and she has been a big role model for me, walking around Rochdale or even sitting at the canal messing about.
“Kim was a really important person to me and I regret not messaging her more or seeing her more often.
“She was one of those people who would tell you as it is but also the most kind hearted, soft spoken person I’ve ever met.
“I am really going to miss Kim, always lighting up every room she walked into.
“My thoughts and prayers are all to the family at this time. Rest in peace babe.”
Friends have since gathered online to share their grief, describing her as “one of a kind” and “taken far too soon”.
In another tribute, Curtis King wrote: “R.I.P Kim Louise Johnson my love and thoughts go out to all your family. A beautiful soul lost way too young.”
Residents in Oldham said the reservoir is a popular walking spot but warned the waters can be treacherous.
One local said: “It’s heartbreaking to hear someone has lost their life there. It looks calm on the surface but it can be dangerous.”
Kim leaves behind her three children, who friends say were the “centre of her world”.
Those who knew her best said she was a devoted mum who worked hard to give her family the best life possible.
The tragedy has sparked fresh warnings about the dangers of swimming in open water, especially during the summer months.
Experts say hidden currents, sudden drops and freezing temperatures can all pose a risk.
