Table of Contents
- Urgent Rescue Mission
- Search Efforts
- Eyewitness Reports
- Public Safety Advisory
- Fire and Rescue Update
- Latest News
An urgent rescue mission has been initiated to locate a man who was last seen swimming in a river at a popular scenic location.
Authorities were alerted to the scene in Dinckley at just before 1 PM today following reports of a man in the River Ribble.
Search and rescue teams, fire engines, and a coastguard helicopter have been deployedCredit: Alamy
A frantic search operation commenced from Ribchester Road, which is currently cordoned off.
Search and rescue teams, fire engines, and a coastguard helicopter have been observed in the area.
Meanwhile, the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that four of their swift water rescue units, two water sleds, and a boat equipped with an underwater drone are actively engaged in the operation.
An eyewitness told Lancashire Live : “The water temperature at this time of year is very cold.
“The river can also be hazardous due to the rocks on the riverbed.”
Another witness reported seeing a group of men canoeing on the river, stating: “There were three men in their 40s; two were in one canoe, while the third was in his own canoe.
“The river level is slightly above average, but the current wasn't particularly fast. However, navigating the river can be challenging due to the rocks and varying water depth.”
A spokesperson for Lancashire stated: “We received a call regarding concerns for the safety of a man last seen swimming in the River Ribble at 12:58 PM today (21st December).
“A multi-agency rescue operation is ongoing, and we kindly ask the public to avoid the area to allow emergency responders to carry out their work safely.
“Anyone with information that could assist the emergency response is encouraged to call 101 and reference log 590 of 21st December 2025.”
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service added: “At 1:02 PM on 21 December 2025, four fire engines from Barnoldwick, Nelson, Darwen, and Clitheroe were dispatched to a water rescue incident on Gisburn Road, Mitton, Clitheroe.
“Four swift water rescue units, two water sleds, and a boat utilizing the underwater drone are actively involved. Crews remain on site.”
Authorities were notified at 12:58 PM today following reports of a man in the River RibbleCredit: Alamy
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Dinckley today?
An urgent rescue mission was launched to find a man who was last seen swimming in the River Ribble.
What safety measures are in place during the rescue?
Authorities have cordoned off the area and are asking the public to avoid it to ensure that emergency responders can work safely.
How can someone help with the rescue operation?
Anyone with information that could assist the rescue operation is encouraged to call 101 and reference log 590 of 21st December 2025.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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