Parents sue Wigan Council after their teen son drowned in Scotsman’s Flash. They allege safety failings led to his death.
Alex was with friends enjoying a day out, and the group went swimming in the lake. Alex could not swim well but entered water up to his waist. Suddenly, it became much deeper, and although friends tried to help him, he disappeared under the water.
His body was found after about five minutes, and a passer-by pulled him from the lake. An inquest occurred at Bolton Coroner’s Court, revealing there was no safety equipment at the lake and signs did not warn about swimming dangers.
Alex’s parents believe safety measures could have saved him and have filed a negligence claim. They are suing Wigan Council, and Slater and Gordon represents the family. The claim aligns with the Fatal Accidents Act.
Alex’s father said they will never get over losing him and stated that warning signs were advised in 2020 but were never placed at the site. This detail angered Alex’s parents.
A coroner issued a report for preventing future deaths, and new warning signs are now at the lake. However, the signs don’t say “no unauthorised swimming,” and the location of throw lines is also being questioned.
Wigan Council reviewed water safety after Alex’s death, and Alex’s parents now campaign for open water safety. They want better signs and equipment and believe other bodies of water need attention.
A lawyer at Slater and Gordon commented on the events, stating Alex’s family is devastated and have questions about the absence of safety measures. The family campaigns for water safety awareness and Wigan Council did not comment on the legal claim.