HEROIC efforts could not save a 10-year-old boy from drowning in a Reading river – but his death last year has triggered major efforts to protect lives in waterways, an inquest has heard.

Shadrack Appiah died at Royal Berkshire Hospital on August 21, after he had cried out for help while swimming with friends in the River Kennet near Waterloo Meadows.

During an inquest at Reading Coroner’s Court, coroner Hannah Godfrey ruled Shadrack – who was unable to swim – died from drowning in an instance of ‘misadventure’.

The schoolboy had been in water 6ft deep, a few yards from the bank, after running ahead of a supervising adult.

You can read the full story in this week’s edition of the Reading Chronicle. Also in this week's paper:

Lights bill tops 600k - page 2

Dogs made ill by drug in the park - page 3

PLUS: All the latest from Reading Magistrates' Courts

Family announcements

Camera club

Entertainment news and a comprehensive TV guide

Local events round up

A four-page puzzle special

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