Tearful staff lay flowers after girl, 11 dies in 'tragic incident' at water park in Berkshire

The park remained closed today but dozens of staff gathered to lay flowers outside the gates. ITV News correspondent Mike Pearse reports from the scene.

An investigation is underway after a young girl died at a water park near Datchet in Berkshire.

Emergency services were called to Liquid Leisure Windsor in Horton Road just before 4pm on Saturday to reports of an 11-year-old girl in difficulties.

A huge search was launched with support from the National Police Air Service.

The girl was found at around 5.10pm and taken to Wexham Park Hospital but sadly died.

Her death is being treated as unexplained and an investigation has been launched.

In a Facebook post, Liquid Leisure said the park would remain closed today after what was a "desperately tragic incident".

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and all those effected by this desperately tragic and upsetting incident," they said.

Today, dozens of staff gathered, several in tears, to lay flowers outside the gates of the park.

Although formal identification has yet to take place, the girl’s next of kin have been informed and they are being offered support by officers.

Local policing area commander for Windsor and Maidenhead, Superintendent Michael Greenwood, said: "My thoughts are with the family and friends of the girl who has died as a result of this tragic incident.

"We are in the early stages of investigating this incident to understand the full circumstances

"There was a swift response from all emergency services and following an extensive search of the lake, the girl, who was 11, was located at around 5.10pm and taken to hospital but sadly died.

"This has been an extremely traumatic and upsetting incident for all involved.

"I am aware that several members of the public entered the lake shortly after the girl got into difficultly, but were unable to locate her.

"I would like to commend them for their courage and bravery.

"My sincere condolences are with the girl’s family and friends, and I would ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly traumatic and distressing time for them."

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