EMERGENCY throwlines are set to be installed at two Bolton reservoirs in a bid to stop people drowning.

The scheme has been launched by United Utilities after it was revealed that four people have died in reservoirs around the North West in the last two years.

The throwlines, which could buy valuable time for any swimmers in trouble, will be introduced at 20 locations around eight reservoirs across Greater Manchester and Lancashire, each dedicated to the memory of someone who lost their life.

Three will be set up at High Rid Reservoir in Horwich, where 21-year-old Dominic McLoughlin tragically drowned last summer after going for a swim with a friend.

Two throwlines will also be installed in memory of Ramsbottom man Steven Dyson at Jumbles Reservoir, where he and his family were regular visitors.

Steven’s body was found in the River Irwell in Summerseat last year following a six-day search.

His mum Lorraine Roach said: “Hopefully the throwlines will never be needed, but if they save just one life then it will be worth it.

“I would not want another parent to go through what I have.

“People do not realise how dangerous open water is. Throwlines should be standard for every bit of open water whether it is a reservoir or a free-flowing river.”

Ms Roach and other bereaved families were joined by water safety campaigners and representatives from the North West’s water company and fire and rescue services at Greenbooth Reservoir near Rochdale on Thursday to mark the scheme’s launch.

The reservoir is the site where 16-year-old Paul Lawson drowned in June 2017, and two throwlines have been installed there in his memory.

Martin Padley, water services director at United Utilities, said: “The land around our reservoirs is a wonderful natural resource and we want to do everything possible to encourage people to visit and enjoy the health benefits of being out in the countryside.

“However, reservoirs are too dangerous for swimming and despite our best efforts to raise awareness of the dangers there are always a few who will take a chance.

“We hope the throwlines and the information displayed with them will help deter people from swimming and, if the worst should happen, it could make the difference between life and death.”

The throwline’s information board provides advice on how to help in an emergency and pinpoints an accurate location for fire and rescue services.

Should the scheme prove a success, United Utilities says it will consider rolling it out at others reservoirs across the North West.