THE body of a man has been recovered from Ponden Reservoir.

Emergency services were called to the site near Stanbury at about 5.50pm yesterday after reports someone had been seen getting into difficulty while swimming.

Police confirm that the body of a 27-year-old man, who was from outside the West Yorkshire area, was recovered just before 10pm.

There was a full emergency services response to the incident and searches of the reservoir were carried out by the fire service, National Police Air Service and specialist police divers.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Farrell, of Bradford District Police, said: “We are continuing to investigate today following a major search at the reservoir last night which sadly resulted in divers recovering the body of a man.

“This has been a tragic incident in which a man has lost his life and I would like to remind all residents and visitors to West Yorkshire of the extreme dangers posed by swimming in – or entering – open water not designated for such use.

“Such water can be very cold – even in the summer months – and people suddenly entering cold water are susceptible to hyperventilation, which could result in the body going into seizure.

“Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and officers are working to support them as our enquiries continue.”