Police are warning people of the dangers of entering lakes and quarries after people were found swimming in a lake in Halling.

On Monday, the hottest day of the year so far, a large group of people were found swimming on a privately owned former cement works off the A228.

Officers were called to the lake just after 5pm due to concerns for the safety of the swimmers who were unaware of the dangers.

Inspector Tony Dyer said: "It is an offence to trespass on private land and in this case people put themselves at risk from swimming in a very deep and cold lake.

"This particular lake looks inviting due to its striking blue colour, but it is far too dangerous to swim in it.

"The lake is very deep and cold, which could cause cramping or the body to go into shock.

"There could also be hidden rocks and weeds, which would be dangerous to anyone jumping in.

"I’d advise anyone wanting to cool down in open water to use areas patrolled by lifeguards."

The swimmers were warned about the dangers of swimming in the lake and trespassing on private land, and were escorted off the site.