A Cumbrian partnership launched to make sure people enjoy the county’s waters safely has marked the first anniversary of its formation.

Members of Cumbria’s Water Safety Partnership came together one year on from the group’s creation at an event to reflect on the important work done so far and identify new ways to share vital water safety advice.

David Allen, Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, said: “It is great to see colleagues from Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, Cumbria Constabulary, and many other key partners across Cumbria share their knowledge, passion and expertise to save lives.

“I’m passionate about water safety, having grown up in the Lakes and being a keen paddleboarder, and I will support their vital work in any way I can.

“This partnership undoubtedly makes our communities, our residents and the visitors to our fantastic county safer and will enable as many people as possible to enjoy our waters – whether in the beautiful Lake District or on our wonderful coastline – in a safe and responsible way.”

The event was hosted by Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, which has led the partnership, at its Penrith headquarters, with representation from partners including the RNLI, Royal Life Saving Society, HM Coastguard, Cumbria Association of Secondary Headteachers, Lake District National Park Authority, Cumberland Council, Westmorland and Furness Council, and Cumbria Constabulary.

Paul Milburn, Group Manager for Prevention and Protection at Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, added: “In just 12 months we have already achieved a great deal and that has been driven by a desire to make a difference from every individual and organisation involved.

“Now that we have got that foundation, we can move forward practically, working together and having a common goal of preventing all water-related deaths, because one is too many.”

A minute’s silence was observed to remember the man in his 20s who sadly lost his life at Ullswater last month, which was a tragic reminder of the importance of the partnership, before the floor was opened to members to speak.

The partnership’s vital work so far has included data analysis to better understand high-risk areas across the county, and targeted campaigns to share key safety messages.

This has included the ‘Float to Live’ technique – in which the person in difficulty in the water should lie on their back with their head tilted back and arms outstretched to help control their breathing and stay afloat.

Members have also visited schools to deliver advice to more than 1,000 secondary school pupils, promoted the educational platform StayWise, and improved their understanding of younger age groups.