Praise for "fantastic" water safety day in memory of teenager Sam Haycock

Emergency services officers led water rescue demonstrations and passed on safety tips at Rother Valley Country Park on Sunday.

Members of the Sam’s Army Mission group founded in memory of East Dene teenager Sam Haycock (below), who died at Ulley in May, had a fundraising stall at the event.

Co-organiser Jodi Ryalls said: “The event was fantastic — we had South Yorkshire Police and the ambulance and fire services all doing demonstrations, as well as the community safety team from the Lifewise Centre and the Rother Valley Newfoundland Dog Training Group.

“We raised a total of £256 for Sam’s organisation to raise money towards equipment needed round these lakes and reservoirs, too.

“We had huge support from the locals, while Sam’s family and  friends are showing their continued support.

“We would like to thank all the services involved with supporting us.

“We are one step closer to doing what we believe is right in trying to prevent other accidents in open water in memory of Sam.”

The group have also set up their own crowdfunding page at https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Samsarmy.