A warning has been issued after youngsters were seen playing on a frozen canal.
A photo of the children, taken on Sunday afternoon, shows a group of around six boys at the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, in Abram, Wigan.
While two are sitting on the wall, four of them are standing on the frozen water, one of them close to the centre of the canal.
The image was shared by Melanie, whose husband and dad came across the boys while they were riding their bikes at around 3pm.
Sharing the photo in a Facebook group, she said: “Kids playing on the icy canal. Past Dover Lock towards Platt Bridge / Ashton.
“Adults (my partner and dad) did tell them to get off as it’s not safe, but they continued. Sharing so you can keep your kids safe.”
The photo was taken on Sunday afternoon
(Image: Manchester Family / MEN)
It’s not the only incident that’s happened on frozen water this weekend.
Another photo was shared showing a boy walking across the frozen lake at Reddish Vale Country Park in Stockport.
And on Saturday, police issued a warning following reports of children playing on Dixon Green fishing pond in Farnworth, Bolton.
Officers warned against the ‘extremely dangerous’ behaviour, adding it can have ‘fatal consequences’.
The force also shared advice and guidance for staying safe around frozen water, including not throwing sticks or balls for dogs over it, and calling 999 if you see anyone in trouble in icy water.
“We have received a report this afternoon of children playing on a frozen reservoir,” the force wrote. “Venturing onto frozen ponds, reservoirs, lakes and canals is extremely dangerous and can have fatal consequences.”
People were warned to pay attention to one ‘simple’ message: “Stay safe, stay off the ice.”