A tragic discovery has been made in the search for a missing swimmer who ventured into the Thames to cool down during what was the hottest day of the year so far.

The incident unfolded near Barge Walk in Kingston around 6:40 pm on Sunday, prompting a coordinated effort by multiple emergency services to locate the individual.

In an update provided on Monday, the Metropolitan Police revealed that a body had been recovered from the river at Barge Walk. While formal identification is pending, authorities believe it to be that of the missing swimmer.

The search involved the Met’s Marine Policing Unit, the London Ambulance Service, the London Fire Brigade, the RNLI, and the National Police Air Service, reflecting the collaborative response to such emergencies.

According to Scotland Yard, the initial call reporting the swimmer’s difficulty in the water came in at 6:41 pm on Sunday. Subsequent efforts led to the recovery of the body around 12:20 pm on Monday.

As temperatures soared on Sunday, reaching a high of 27.5°C in Chertsey, Surrey, and the mid-20s in parts of London, many sought refuge in the river. However, tragedy struck amidst the heatwave, serving as a sombre reminder of the hazards posed by swimming in the Thames.

Eyewitnesses recounted the swift response of emergency services, with one individual, Jadine Brunsdon, describing the scene: “We noticed them going in. Then about half an hour later we saw police cars and ambulances driving down.

London Ambulance Service confirmed their involvement, stating they were called to the scene at 6:40 pm on Sunday but were stood down by 10 pm when the person had not been found.

Authorities reiterated the dangers of swimming in the Thames, cautioning against the perception that the river provides safe relief from the heat. Strong currents, tides, whirlpools, and cold water shock present significant risks to swimmers, highlighting the importance of heeding safety warnings.

The incident also showcased the swift and coordinated response of emergency services, including firefighters, who worked alongside other agencies in the search and recovery efforts.

As formal identification and further investigations proceed, the tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the need for caution and awareness when enjoying recreational activities near water bodies, especially during periods of heightened temperatures