Tragedy as man, 61, dies ‘yards from beach' during induction for open water swimming event in front of horrified public
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A MAN has tragically died at an open water swimming event after suffering a "medical episode" just yards from the shore.
Shepperton Open Water Swim remains closed today following the 61-year-old's tragic death at Shepperton Lake in Surrey yesterday morning.
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Cops were called to the site on Ferry Lane at around 10.20am on Sunday.
The firm told how staff were "truly devastated" by the tragedy, adding that the decision to close had been made as a mark of respect.
It explained that the man had been swimming in the lake for his induction swim.
He suffered the medical episode after "going limp" in waist-high water.
CPR was administered by on site medical staff, with ambulance crews arriving at the scene just minutes later.
Posting a heartfelt statement on social media, Shepperton Open Water Swim said: "We are not opening as a mark of respect following the tragic events of today.
"The team need time to process the incident which has hit us all hard.
"Thanks to everybody involved today and for all your kind comments.
"Our hearts go out to the gentleman's family and friends - we are all truly devastated."
A spokesperson for Surrey Police said: 'Officers were called at around 10.20am on Sunday 29 June to reports of a medical episode at Ferry Lane, Shepperton.
'Colleagues from South East Coast Ambulance were also in attendance, and sadly a 61-year-old man was confirmed to be deceased at the scene.
'His death is not being treated as suspicious.
"His next of kin are aware and our thoughts are with them at this time.'
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