Swimmers warned about dangers of cold water shock

Swimmers in Devon and Cornwall have been warned about the dangers of open water swimming, including cold water shock.

Nearly 200 people died from accidental drownings in the UK last year, with 28 in May alone, according to the National Water Safety Forum (NWSF).

The NWSF said cold water shock was "the body's response to sudden immersion in cold water, leading to an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing and temporary loss of swimming ability".

Mike Tipton, the organisation's chairman, said new swimmers should make sure they were "fit and healthy enough" to do open water swimming and go with a "recognised group in a safe location".