CHILDREN have been risking their lives by skating on a frozen reservoir on the Isle of Wight, it has been revealed.

Police and civic chiefs are now warning the youngsters not to skate on the Somerton Reservoir in Cowes amid concerns they could fall through the ice.

Officers were called to the reservoir off Newport Road this morning (Sat 9) after footprints were found in the ice suggesting people had also been walking across the frozen water.

Stuart Love, IW Council director of the environment, said: "It should go without saying that skating on ice above a deep, sheer-sided reservoir is extremely dangerous. I would urge anyone who sees this activity taking place to report it immediately.

"There are plenty of ways of enjoying the conditions safely without putting your lives - and the lives of others - at risk by hazardous activities such as skating on frozen water or by sledging in dangerous locations."

Concerns for people's welfare in the adverse weather can be reported to the police by phoning 101. Phone 999 in the event of a life-threatening emergency.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service is also urging residents and visitors to the county not to venture onto ice-covered lakes, ponds, rivers or open water.

Area manager Mick Crennell said: "Falling through the ice can so easily have fatal results. The hazards include drowning, asphyxia, and hypothermia.

"If the ice gives way then it can trap you, and when the weather is like this hypothermia sets in very quickly. Children are particularly at risk, and parents and guardians are asked to remind them of the dangers."