Police and fire crews called to reports of people in the river in York – but they were swimming

Firefighters were called to reports of two women in the River Ouse in York city centre early this morning (Tuesday).

A crew from York responded to the call at 5am to the riverside at King’s Staith.

But it was a false alarm.

A North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service spokesperson said: “On arrival the ladies had exited the water.

“They had been swimming. Advice given.”

York Rescue Boat was also called to the scene.

The voluntary group said on social media: “Our volunteers were called out this morning at 05.04 by North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service to reports of two people in the River Ouse in York.

“Both parties out on arrival been spoken to by North Yorkshire Police.”