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Emergency services at the scene of the tragedy last night

A man from Atherton has drowned in a reservoir north of Bolton after trying to save a 12-year-old girl who fell into the water, police have said.

Andrew Smith, 34, was with his girlfriend, Tricia Nowell, and her daughter, Amy, when the girl fell into the water at Anglezarke Reservoir.

Initial reports suggested that Mr Smith jumped into the water to rescue a dog, but police said later they were told the three were playing with a ball, and the girl had gone to catch it but slipped and fell around 4ft from the bank into the water.

The man jumped in to save the girl, who managed to get herself out, but Mr Smith, from Atherton, got into difficulties.

Police, mountain rescue divers and the fire service were called to the reservoir to search for the missing man.

Mr Smith's body was recovered from the water around two hours later.

Inspector Graeme Smith from Lancashire Police said: "On Wednesday evening, a call was received via Greater Manchester Police, reporting a male in difficulties in the water at Anglezarke Reservoir.

"Patrols attended the scene and spoke to Tricia Nowell who informed officers her 12-year-old daughter had fallen into the water and that her boyfriend, Andrew Smith had jumped into the water to assist.

"The lady's daughter had managed to get out to the side and get herself out, but Andrew got himself into difficulties and unfortunately drowned.

"Officers recovered Andrew's body from the water. A report will be submitted to the coroner."

8:29am Thursday 15th May 2008

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