A teenager lost his life in Bolton after a canoeing accident in a “sad and tragic death".

Joseph Holt died aged 17 on Tuesday, April 9 and an inquest into his death has opened at Bolton Coroners' Court.

The court heard the teenager, who was born in Bury and lived in Little Lever, got into a canoe with a group of friends.

He entered at the River Tonge and was heading to the River Croal.

But he lost control of the canoe and went into the water alongside a friend.

A search was carried out near Raikes Lane and he was found and taken to the accident and emergency department of the Royal Bolton Hospital.

Mr Holt, who was a student, died the following day.

The cause of death was given as asphyxia caused by drowning.

Coroner Professor Dr Alan Walsh adjourned the case.

He said: “I ask the (police coroners’) officer to send condolences to the parents for what appears to be a very sad and tragic death.”

A full inquest into the death of Mr Holt, of Chester Avenue, Little Lever, is set to take place in September.

Following the incident, Detective Inspector Stuart Woodhead said: “This is an extremely upsetting and distressing incident for those involved due to the tragic circumstances and we are continuing to support their loved ones at this time."

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “At around 8pm on Tuesday, April 9, fire crews were called to a reports of a person in the water near Raikes Lane in Bolton.

“Two fire engines from Bolton Central fire station, as well as the water incident unit from Heywood and the technical response unit from Leigh, quickly attended the scene.

“Firefighters recovered a 17-year-old male from the water who was then conveyed to hospital, but despite the best efforts of emergency services he sadly passed away.

"This was a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the young man’s family and friends.”