THE mum of a 15-year-old girl who died at Carr Mill Dam has paid tribute to her daughter, saying she is "devastated beyond words", while calling for more safety measures at the popular beauty spot.
Emergency services were called to the dam off Old Garswood Road at 12.30pm on Thursday after reports of a concern for the safety of the teenage girl.
Police searched the water and later confirmed the devastating news that they had recovered her body.
St Helens Council today issued a statement with condolences and a safety warning on its social media page, Kirsty Madden has responded saying it is her daughter, Erin, who died.
She said: “This dam needs draining my daughter lost her life in there yesterday how many more times does this need to keep happening to children until something is done.
“My girl had her whole life ahead of her, she was capable of anything and it's all been ripped away.
“We are all devastated beyond words and my life will never be the same again.
“I love you Erin with my heart and soul forever and always.”
Meanwhile, dozens of floral and balloon tributes have been placed at the side of the dam, most containing messages from friends.
Groups of teenagers have been gathering nearby throughout the day.
There are also written messages, many saying ‘Forever 15’, on the dam wall.
A fundraising page has also been set up in memory of the teenager. The GoFundMe appeal has so far raised £700 towards the cost of her funeral.
The council’s statement, by Cllr David Baines and Cllr Manciya Uddin said: "On behalf of everyone at St Helens Council, we offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the teenage girl who sadly lost her life at Carr Mill Dam yesterday.
"Whilst we wait for the full facts to be established of what caused this tragedy, we would urge all residents to be aware of the very real dangers of swimming in open water.
“The water hides many hazards such as debris, weeds and reeds, as well as being extremely cold.
"We will be continuing to work together with local emergency services to help educate young people on the dangers that open water can pose to help keep them safe."
The dam is a stretch of open water managed by the Canal & River Trust.
For the fundraising page, go to gofundme.com/f/kirsty-and-children-at-this-sad-time
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