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A young man in his 20s has tragically died after disappearing in the River Avon during a swim with friends in Bradford on Avon, prompting a large-scale emergency response on Friday evening (27 June).

Major Search Operation

Emergency services were called to Barton Farm Country Park at 5.30pm after reports that a person had failed to resurface near Packhorse Bridge, a known local swimming spot. It is understood the man was part of a group who jumped into the river together, but he did not come back up.

Fire crews, specialist water rescue teams, and paramedics raced to the scene. Resources included:

• Seven fire crews

• Three water rescue units (from Wiltshire and Avon FRS)

• Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance (stood down later)

• Wiltshire Search and Rescue and support teams from Severn Area Rescue Association and Avon and Somerset SAR

• Police drone operators and thermal imaging searches

Body Recovered in Early Hours

After several hours of intense searching, specialist teams located and recovered the body of a young man in the early hours of Saturday (28 June).

Wiltshire Police confirmed:

"We responded to concerns for the welfare of a man swimming in the River Avon. Following a search, we sadly recovered a body. While formal identification is yet to take place, the family has been informed. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time."

Witness Interviews

A number of young people, believed to be friends of the victim, were interviewed by detectives on site.

Emergency Services Statements

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said:

"We were called at 5.43pm to Pound Lane to assist with a rescue from water. Crews from Trowbridge, Chippenham, Bath and Temple Back, along with water rescue units and a drone, were deployed. The incident was handed to police and we left the scene at 8.22pm."

Community Impact

This incident has shocked the local community. While swimming in the River Avon is popular in warmer months, officials frequently warn about the hidden dangers of cold water shock, unseen currents, and underwater hazards.

Appeal and Safety Reminder

Wiltshire Police are urging the public to be cautious around open water and are reminding residents to never swim alone or in unmonitored areas.

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