Police warning on Chinnor quarry swimming after viral posts

Multiple warnings have been given against entering the water at Old Kiln Lakes, the disused chalk extraction pits in Chinnor, near Thame, known locally as the ‘blue lagoon’.

The lakes are extremely dangerous to swim in due to high alkaline levels, hazards in the water and steep cliff-sides, but swimmers have been attending in large numbers to use the site during the heatwave.

READ MORE: Chinnor pub issues warning against swimming in ‘blue lagoon’

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “Following an increase in reports of people visiting Chinnor Quarry, including social media posts encouraging others to attend and swim, we are issuing a renewed warning to the public.

“Chinnor Quarry is private property and should not be accessed under any circumstances. Entering the site is trespassing.

Chinnor Quarry (Image: Mark Bassett)

“The quarry poses serious and potentially life-threatening risks. The water is extremely hazardous and can cause significant health issues, and the site is surrounded by steep cliff faces with unstable ground.

“Entering the water or climbing within the quarry can quickly lead to serious injury or worse.

“We have also received reports of anti-social behaviour and parking issues in and around the quarry, causing disruption to the local community.

READ MORE: Oxford teenage boy dies after River Thames incident

“We are working with partners and the landowner to address these issues, and urge the public not to attend the site, enter the water, or promote it online.

“We thank residents for their continued support in helping to keep the area safe.”

It comes after a 14-year-old boy died after jumping into the River Thames at Donnington Bridge on Wednesday evening (May 27), the 11th person to die in open water during this month’s heatwave.