The perils of taking a dip when the weather heats up have been highlighted at the launch of a new awareness campaign.

With sunnier days finally on the way - and forecasters predicting a mini heatwave this weekend - police teamed up with other agencies for Operation Twitch.

The campaign was launched at the Blue Lagoon, Belmont, the scene of several drownings in recent years.

Local police were joined by members of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Lancashire Fire and Rescue and water company United Utilities for the launched yesterday.

Sgt Jon Cisco said: "Every year, children across the country die as a result of swimming in unauthorised areas.

"It is vital that we do everything possible to raise awareness of the dangers associated with swimming in open water, particularly now the weather is improving. I urge people to act sensibly and stay safe, particularly if drinking alcohol beside open water."

Temperatures are expected to hit 23C tomorrow and forecasters say the weather should stay fine for the weekend.

Police are urging people trio stay clear of lakes and reservoirs - however warm it gets.

Sgt Cisco said: "People shouldn't swim when under the influence. Alcohol can reduce the body temperature and cause cramps.

"One metre down, water in this country is barely one degree above freezing, whatever the temperature in the air.

"These conditions quickly chill the body, causing blood to be drawn from the extremities to sustain the vital organs.

"This soon results in paralysis of the limbs, followed by sinking. Cold water then enters the lungs and drowning becomes inevitable. Even the strongest of swimmers is vulnerable to this chain of events."