Swimmers pictured taking dip in ‘probably the most dangerous water in the UK’

People have been pictured swimming in a former quarry in Derbyshire described as “probably the most dangerous water in the UK”.

Hundreds of people have reportedly ignored warnings to stay away from the Harpur Hill lagoon in Buxton, Derbyshire, which is known locally as the Blue Lagoon.

One local told the BBC he saw “many hundreds of people” at the quarry and “at least five” in the water over the Bank Holiday weekend.

The water in the pool has a PH value similar to bleach, emergency services have warned.

There said here are also old cars and animal carcasses in the water.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service tweeted: “We’re aware of people continuing to visit Harpur Hill quarry, known locally as the Blue Lagoon.

“Did you know it gets its blue colour from toxic deposits seeping from the quarry stone and is the same PH value as bleach!

“Would you swim there? #StayAway ”

Danielle, 22 from Sheffield, told the Derbyshire Telegraph: “My family has been coming here for years so I thought it would be busy but I didn’t expect it to be this busy to be fair.

“We’ve just come down with the kids for a picnic but I don’t think we’ll stop for long. I can’t believe how busy it is.

“I’m amazed people are swimming. The signs make it obvious how dangerous it is.”