Tragic death at Falls of Bruar sparks safety review at beauty spot.

Councillor to seek signs at beauty spot after swim tragedy

The tragic death of a teenager at a Perthshire beauty spot has triggered calls for a new safety campaign.

Ali Ahmed from East London was swimming with friends at the Falls of Bruar when he got into difficulties.

His pals battled in vain to pull the 19-year-old out as he struggled against strong currents.

Mr Ahmed disappeared underwater, sparking a major rescue effort.

His body was recovered from the waterfall by police divers on Thursday morning.

Local councillor Xander McDade said: “This was a horrific tragedy and my thoughts are with Ali’s family and friends at this very sad time.

“It’s just terrible to think about this young man, who had his whole life ahead of him, holidaying in the area and having a great time with friends when something like this happened.”

Mr McDade said: “We often see adverts on TV, or national campaigns, highlighting the dangers of swimming at sea. But what we need to see is something similar, to educate people about the risks of swimming in inland water courses. They might look safer, but they can be just as dangerous.

He said: “People who live in Perthshire will be brought up to know how treacherous places like this can be, but we really need to get that message through to visitors as well.

“I intend to visit Falls of Bruar soon and check what sort of signage is there to warn people about these dangers. If there doesn’t appear to be enough, I will certainly be asking for more.”

A Police Scotland spokesman confirmed that the body had been identified as Mr Ahmed.

“Our thoughts are with his family,” he said.

Jason Mason-Strang, director of the outdoor adventure company Nae Limits, said: “It’s so easy these days to research the area before you visit.

“There’s no shortage of knowledgable businesses offering to take people on excursions to places like this. It’s still a buzz, but with a more measured and controlled risk.”

He said that more or clearer warning signs could help, but warned that lifebelts and other safety devices could give a false sense of security.

The area is well know because of its association with poet Robert Burns.

It is popular among walkers and canyoning enthusiasts and attracts visitors from around the world.

People who live in Perthshire will be brought up to know how treacherous places like this can be, but we need to get this message across to visitors as well. LOCAL COUNCILLOR XANDER MCDADE