Interim barriers installed following Charlie Pope's canal death

By Kris Jepson

Interim barriers have been installed on the waterway next to the Rochdale Canal in Greater Manchester, following the death of Northumbrian student Charlie Pope a fortnight ago.

Charlie's father, Nick Pope, told ITV News Tyne Tees, "it's fantastic", but "only the start".

Watch @krisjepson's report here:

Mr Pope met with the Manchester Water Safety Partnership earlier this week to discuss his concerns about the lack of protection for members of the public walking next to the canal.

It comes after his son, Charlie, allegedly lost his balance and fell into the canal, whilst attempting to cross the water via the lock on the 2 March.

Mr Pope has also added his name to a petition calling for permanent barriers to be erected, which has already been signed by more than 44,000 people.

The Manchester Water Safety Partnership, which consists of representatives from the council, Greater Manchester Police, the fire service, the Canal and River Trust, CityCo and the Royal Life Saving Society, said installing permanent barriers is not "straight forward", because they have to allow access to and from the waterside for the canal to operate.

Mr Pope argues they need to think of a "modern, creative, 21st Century solution" that will appease all parties, so that the canal remains functional, whilst keeping people safe.

The Canal and River Trust told ITV News Mr Pope's concerns have been taken on board.