Police have told people not to swim in the Ashby Canal in Moira - after 'dealing with' a group using the waterway in the hot weather.

The warning goes out to anyone who feels like a dip as a way of cooling off during the soaring temperatures.

North West Leicestershire Police said today: "We know it's hot but with temperatures hitting nearly 40 degrees, we must stress how dangerous it is to go for a dip in the waterways around the area.

"Over the recent days we have been having numerous reports of a group that have been swimming in the canal- the members of the group have been identified and being dealt with by officers for this.

"We cannot stress enough how dangerous it is to swim in these waters.

"The lock itself near to Moira Co-op, when full, reaches depths of approximately 18ft, there is toxic algae in the water and if ingested will make people very poorly, not to mention the added dangers if you get into difficulty.

"There is no lifeguard around, and you put not only your own life but also those who risk theirs who try to save you."