Local woman promotes water safety after husband’s Shrewsbury river tragedy
Kirsty Walsh is amongst volunteers patrolling the River Severn throughout December weekends to keep people safe
Kirsty Walsh, who tragically lost her husband Shane in 2017 after he drowned following a night out, is continuing her efforts to promote water safety.
Shane was on a night out in Shrewsbury in September 2017 when he became separated from his friends. After tripping over a low wall, he found himself being propelled into the River Sever, unable to self-rescue and became missing for three days.
A group of volunteers from West Mercia Police helped search for his body- some of which had travelled over three hours to aid support. Kirsty said she was blown away with the response:
"It's stuck with me that these complete strangers were so willing to help and give me the closure that I needed.
"Without them I wouldn't be here today, they are the heroes in my story."
Committed to preventing similar tragedies, Kirsty's been dedicating her weekends to join river patrols each Christmas; encouraging people to enjoy their evenings responsibly and return home safely.
Kirsty now serves as a volunteer for West Mercia Search and Rescue, the charity that assisted in recovering Shane’s body from the River Severn.
She continues to be out on the town alongside volunteers every Friday and Saturday evening throughout December, educating people on water safety and assisting people with required help. They are also prepared to offer immediate help if anyone finds themselves in danger.
Kirsty said:
"We really try to educate people about the dangers of the water, how to stay safe, how to self rescue and how they can help someone else if they find themselves in the water."
"We walk around the River Severn in a figure of 8- shape to patrol the area and keep individuals away, whilst supporting them when needed."
These efforts are part of a wider safety initiative, supported by West Mercia Police under Operation Christmas Presence, ensuring the community can enjoy festive nights out with greater peace of mind.
The river patrols are coordinated by West Mercia Search and Rescue and receive additional backing from West Mercia Police and Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service as part of the Home and Dry Campaign.