A 15-year-old boy who died after getting into difficulty in a Lancashire river "was such a lovely boy", his father has said.

Lotus Bowker, from Kirkham, was found in the River Wyre near Garstang Cricket Club in Lancashire at about 14:30 BST on Saturday.

Members of the public tried to resuscitate him before he was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition. He died the following day, police said.

Paying tribute, his father David said "he meant the world to me, my wife, daughter and four sons" and warned about the dangers of swimming in rivers and open water.

"I wouldn't wish this on anyone. Those waters aren't meant to be swam in," he said.

"I want any individuals and especially youngsters to think twice before visiting these dangerous locations regardless of social pressures or feeling the need to be included."

'Social pressures'

Lancashire Police said the teenager's death was not being treated as in any way suspicious.

Det Insp Adie Knowles said: "First and foremost my thoughts remain with Lotus's loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

"They have lost a son and brother in the most tragic of circumstances and I just want to echo David's words around water safety.

"I'd just ask that people think twice before going into rivers, reservoirs or any form of open water.

"You are unnecessarily putting your lives at risk, and I really don't want to have to knock on your parents door to tell them that you won't be coming home."

BBC Sounds