Grieving dad’s safety call

The dad of a young man who tragically drowned on a night out in Sunderland is urging young people to stay safe near open water.

Ross Irwin, 22, died in the River Wear on Christmas Eve 2016 in what is believede to was a tragic accident.

Ross, who worked at the Child Benefit Centre at Waterview Park, Washington, had been on a night out after work on December 23 and was last seen telling friends he was going to get a taxi to Sunderland.

Dad Dave believes his son fell into the water after losing his footing on the riverbank where he had gone to relieve himself. His body was found about 100 yards down river.

Mr Irwin is calling on young people to take extra care near open water as the city heads into the last couple of weeks of the summer holidays and the runup to the August Bank Holiday.

He said: “Having lost my son Ross to drink-drowning, I do not want any young person to become a victim. Of all the people who drown each year half had no intention of going near the water, including Ross.

“The pain and heartache your family will go through if you were to drown is totally unbearable, it is a life changing experience and something your family will never get over.

“I want to send this message to as many people as possible. Please take note of the safety messages and please please stay safe around open water. “

Coun John Kelly, Sunderland City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities and Culture, said: “Drowning is the third highest cause of accidental death in young people in the UK. It’s really important people are aware of the dangers and think about whether it’s safe before they venture near water.”