AN EXTENSIVE search was undertaken in Radcliffe after two children were spotted in the River Irwell.

Fire crews were called to Asda in Pilkington Way after a member of the public saw the young people swimming in the river.

The police, fire service and ambulance crews carried out a three-hour search of the water from the ground and the air.

A warning has since been issued against swimming in open water. It follows three drownings in the last month in Greater Manchester.

Station manager Stephen Jordan, who attended the incident, said: "The most important thing is that both children escaped from this emergency unharmed.

"However, the dangers of swimming in open water, particularly the River Irwell which is fast-flowing in places, must be communicated to young people and adults must ensure they understand."

Two fire engines from Whitefield and Salford as well as a technical response unit from Ashton were called shortly after 2.15pm on Saturday.

The two children were later found safe and well in their homes in the local area.

Following the incident, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) reminded residents about the dangers of swimming in open water and warned people not to put themselves and others at risk.

Mr Jordan said: "Since March 2016 we have rescued more than 86 people from open water, where 85 per cent of accidental drownings occur.

"With such hot weather it is very tempting to have a swim to cool off but the water can be as cold as 12°C, quickly causing even the strongest of swimmers to get into difficulties.

"The weekend just gone was one of the busiest on record, with an immense amount of resource committed to tackling very challenging moorland fires in Tameside and Bolton.

"It is vital that GMFRS are able to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, and we ask the public to help us by thinking twice before undertaking this kind of foolish activity."

Residents are urged to inform a lifeguard if they see someone in difficulty in the water.

Alternatively, call 999 and ask for the fire service, or the Coastguard if at the beach.