PENDLE MP Andrew Stephenson has pledged his support to the Royal Life Saving Society UK and the crucial work it does in reducing drowning and providing water safety education.

The move comes a year to the day after 17-year-old James Goodship, from Colne, died after getting into difficulties whilst riding on a makeshift wooden raft with a group of friends at Lake Burwain in Foulridge.

The Royal Life Saving Society UK sent representatives to Westminster Palace ahead of its annual national campaign, Drowning Prevention Week which this year runs this week until Sunday (June 28).

They hoped to gain the support of MPs, so they in turn can support their constituents with drowning prevention messages.

Mr Stephenson said: "I am pleased to support the Royal Life Saving Society and their work to prevent drownings. Pendle residents will remember the tragic death of 17-year-old James Goodship a year ago on the Lower Foulridge Reservoir. Being fit and a good swimmer does not always mean you are safe in the water.

"I helped set up a cross party group on water safety and backed local initiatives to improve education on water safety in schools. I am happy to pledge to continue to support efforts to reduce the number of deaths from drowning."