Children have been warned to stay safe around the River Thames this weekend after a number of deaths on the waterways in recent years.

The Environment Agency warned young people of the dangers of playing by locks, weirs and bridges along the river, which it said may be 'tempting' to jump into in the sunny weather.

Two years ago 16-year-old student Ellis Downes drowned while going for swim in the river near Abindgon, despite friends risking their own lives to save him.

In June 2015, 13-year-old Aown Dogar died after falling into the River Thames at Weirs Lane, near Donnington Bridge.

After being dared to jump in the river in May 2012, Hussain Mohammed, died in almost the same spot.

In 2006, 15-year-old Cherwell School pupil Hassan Hussain drowned in the River Cherwell at University Parks while swimming with friends.

The EA's advice: 

Don't jump or dive in as the depth may vary and there can be unseen hazards.

Don't go in near weirs, locks, pipes and sluices. These and some other water features are often linked with strong currents.

Rivers can be very cold no matter how warm the weather. Those going into cold water can get cramp and experience breathing difficulties very quickly

The organisation's waterways operations manager, Russell Robson, said: "Rivers are great places to have fun, get close to nature and spend time with friends and family, but vigilance can save lives and water-related accidents can be avoided by knowing how to stay safe.

"Do not take unnecessary risks while cooling off and enjoying the river.Water can contain hazards, particularly in and around structures such as bridges, locks and flood channels.

"Unexpectedly cold waters or strong currents can also catch people off guard."