Emergency services are continuing their search for Simon Daniels, who went missing after a boating accident at Dovestone Reservoir, near Oldham, on the edge of the Peak District. The incident occurred around 2:30 PM on Sunday, October 20, when both Daniels and his partner, Holly Ditchfield, ended up in the water while paddleboarding.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that the woman, identified as Holly Ditchfield, was rescued from the water and treated at the scene for hypothermia and shock by paramedics. Simon Daniels remains unaccounted for, and emergency services, including underwater search teams, are actively working to locate him.
The couple, both in their 20s, were named locally as search boats and specialized rescue teams continue their efforts at Dovestone Reservoir. Authorities have not yet determined how the couple ended up in the water.
In a statement posted on social media, Oldham Police (GMP) said: “Underwater teams will continue to search Dovestone Reservoir overnight. The scene will be in place, and people are reminded to stay away from the search area. We are not stopping our search and are doing everything we can to locate the missing man.”
The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service also responded to the incident with three fire engines from Mossley, Stalybridge, and Eccles, alongside the Water Incident Unit from Leigh. Crews remain on the scene, working with police and other emergency services to aid the search operation.
In a separate incident earlier in the day, emergency services were called to Fairbrother Street in Salford, approximately 15 miles away, where the body of a man was discovered in the River Irwell. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding this second incident.
Authorities urge the public to avoid the search area at Dovestone Reservoir and continue to offer their support to the family and friends of those involved. Further updates will be provided as the search and investigation continue.
