Alex Crook, a bright 15-year-old, tragically drowned during a day out with friends. His family is now advocating for better safety measures around open water.
Wigan: Alex Crook was a happy 15-year-old with a bright future. He loved his friends and was a big fan of Wigan Warriors. Everyone who knew him said he had an infectious smile.
In September 2024, he became a prefect at Standish High. He earned the most points for good behavior. Just days later, tragedy struck when he drowned at Scotsman’s Flash.
Alex was out with friends when they decided to go swimming. Sadly, he couldn’t swim and got into trouble. The water was shallow at first, but it quickly became deep.
His dad, Neil, shared how devastating it was. “We’ll never get over this,” he said. They want to keep Alex’s memory alive and warn others about the dangers of open water.
Neil emphasized that Alex was just a normal kid. He wasn’t into trouble or bad habits. He was simply enjoying time with friends, which is what kids should do.
During the inquest, it was revealed that Alex was one of three boys who couldn’t swim. He panicked and went under the water. Sadly, bystanders found his lifeless body later.
Neil and his wife, Lynnette, are heartbroken. They often talk about what Alex could have become. “He’ll never get married or make us grandparents,” Neil said, reflecting on their loss.
Despite swimming being banned at Scotsman’s Flash, people still enter the water. There are no signs warning of the dangers or the sudden drop in depth.
In response to Alex’s death, his family started ‘Awareness for Alex’. They’re pushing for better safety measures and education about open water dangers.
They want schools to provide swimming lessons and for more signs to be placed around dangerous areas. “We need to educate kids about the risks,” Neil added.
They’re also raising funds for life-saving equipment and warning signs. “This campaign helps us remember him,” Neil said. They want to keep warning others, especially as summer approaches.
Wigan council plans to install throw ropes for emergencies. They’ve put up some signs, but the family believes they need to be clearer about swimming restrictions.
Coroner John Pollard stressed the importance of swimming lessons in schools. He recorded a conclusion of accidental death and urged the council to take action.
Neil expressed relief that something will be done. “It’s about getting the word out,” he said. They’ll continue their mission to raise awareness for the rest of their lives.
