A nature reserve manager has issued a safety warning after he caught children skating and playing ice hockey on a frozen pond.
Jim Rae tried to persuade the youngsters to steer clear of the pond at Eskrigg but his pleas were ignored.
He is now urging parents to make sure their children are aware of the dangers after four young boys tragically died after plunging through ice into freezing water in Solihull on Sunday.
Mr Rae said: “Apart from the fact this is a nature reserve and not a playground, the tragic events in Solihull should come as a warning that it’s just not safe.”
He arrived at the reserve on Sunday morning to find three or four youngsters on the pond.
By the afternoon, more than a dozen had congregated to skate and play ice hockey.
He said: “I spoke to the kids and tried to persuade them to get off and keep clear but I was ignored.
“I explained that if I wasn’t around and something had happened or they got into difficulties, there would be nobody to help and we can’t be held responsible for that.
“Their parents probably wouldn’t have been aware they were here. It’s extremely concerning.
“The ice can be weak in many areas due to the feeder streams and perhaps also due to concealed springs in the pond.
“The other matter is that it’s a nature reserve and much of the wildlife because of the wintry conditions are living on the edge of life and death and are relying on access to the feeder stations.”
Police are also urging people to stay on solid ground after reports of youngsters walking and playing on patches of ice throughout the region.
A spokesperson said: “We have received calls from the public concerned about young people on patches of ice.
“The current cold spell has created vast areas of ice on ponds, lochs, rivers, fields, and pitches.
“It may appear like fun to be on ice, but whilst the ice may appear thick, there is no way of telling how strong it is.
“Keep yourselves and your young people safe around water. Stay off the ice.”
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service area commander David Dourley added: “We know the ice can look inviting but do not be tempted to walk on ice. It can easily crack and cause a person to fall through.
“Don’t wander too near to the edge as icy conditions could cause you to slip and fall in and don’t be tempted to test how solid the water is.
“Adults should set a good example by staying off the ice and we also ask that parents, carers and guardians ensure children are aware of the dangers of frozen water.
“We don’t want your winter walk to end in tragedy, so please avoid going near frozen water when you are out with loved ones and pets.”
The warning comes after a tragic incident in England at the weekend. Four youngsters aged 11, 10, eight and six lost their lives after plunging into a frozen pond near
Solihull.
