Search for missing Cheshire West paddleboarder enters fourth day

Simon, a personal trainer, along with a woman, were paddleboarding at Dovestone Reservoir, to the east of Oldham in the Peak District National Park on Sunday, October 20.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) says the pair fell off their inflatable paddleboard at around 2.30pm and entered the water. 

The woman was rescued and later treated by paramedics for hypothermia and shock, but Simon, 29, is still missing.

Search and rescue efforts involving police water rescue units, fire crews, the air ambulance, Coastguard, and Mountain Rescue, continued throughout Sunday night and into Monday. 

Specialist search teams remained at the scene throughout Monday, including underwater search units, but the search was suspended as it went dark amid what police described as 'difficult conditions'. 

Simon specialises in one-to-one personal training sessions with clients (Image: Newsquest) The search resumed on Tuesday in daylight hours, though teams reported no success.

Today (Wednesday, October 23) a GMP spokesman confirmed the search has resumed once again, adding any updates from Dovestone Reservoir will first be given to Simon’s loved ones before the public is informed.

A spokesman for GMP said: “Special officers are continuing with their search on Dovestone Reservoir.

The search for Simon at Dovestone Reservoir has entered its fourth day (Image: Newsquest)

“Access to the car park is still restricted.

“We are in regular contact with the family during this difficult time for them.

“Any updates will be shared with the family first.”

Simon was nominated Northwich & Winsford Guardian’s personal trainer of the year by readers in 2023.

Simon’s friends and clients, as well as the wider public, took to Northwich & Winsford Guardian’s Facebook page to express their sorrow over Simon’s disappearance.    

Emily Whitaker, a former client of Simon’s, said: “It’s such a tragedy.

“He was my personal trainer for a while, and he just had the most beautiful soul.

“He had a heart for people and infectious energy."

Chelsea Dyson said: “Simon always managed to put a smile on my face.

“Truly one of the best people who showed many that no matter what life throws your way, you can achieve what you set out to do and be happy.”

Amanda Bird-Massey said: “This is truly heartbreaking. I’ve had many a night with Simon, family, and friends.

"He was the life and soul and so funny, with the biggest heart in the world.

“As a community, we all stand together in saying what an amazing, kind, generous, caring guy Si is.”