THREE people, including a nine-year-old boy, have died in the water following an incident at Loch Lomond in Scotland.
Police Scotland said the boy, as well as a 41-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman, were pronounced dead at the scene near Pulpit Rock, Ardlui after they were called at 6.40pm on Saturday.
Another boy, aged seven, was taken from the scene by ambulance to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow where he remains in intensive care.
The tragedy comes just over 24 hours after the death of a 16-year-old male at Balloch Country Park on the southern shores of Loch Lomond.
Gordon Watson, Chief Executive of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said it had been "one of the worst weekends in the National Park’s history".
"First and foremost I want to extend my deepest sympathies to the loved ones of those who have died," he said.
"I also want to thank all of those involved in the search and recovery operations."
He added: "Over the coming days we will, along with our partners, reflect on the events of this weekend and discuss what more can be done by us all to prevent further tragedies in our lochs."
Weekend of tragedy
In total, there have been six deaths in Scotland's waters this weekend.
Also on Saturday, an 11-year-old boy died at Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park in Stonehouse at around 4.30pm.
Meanwhile, Police Scotland were called to Hazelbank, Lanark at around 5.55pm on Saturday following a report of concern for a person in the water.
The body of a 13-year-old boy has been recovered today.
Formal identification has still to take place in relation to all of the incidents and full reports will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
'Hard to comprehend'
In a statement, Assistant Chief Constable Mark Williams warned people of the dangerous of open water swimming.
"The number of deaths in open water this weekend is hard to comprehend and my thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected," he said.
"The warm weather can make open water swimming and paddling very inviting but it is extremely dangerous, even for the most experienced swimmers or supervised children.
"The conditions can change very quickly and there are often hidden risks like deeper water and strong currents.
"The message I want to send to everyone is exercise extreme caution. It is better to keep a safe distance from water if possible.
"Tragically, this weekend has highlighted that open water is very, very dangerous. If you see someone in the water and distressed call 999 immediately.
"Remember, you could get into difficulty yourself trying to help so please take care and seek help as soon as possible."
See More: Loch Lomond, Police Scotland
