SWIMMERS are risking their lives at a Malvern Hills quarry.

The warning was issued by senior firefighter Paul Amos, who saw youngsters in the water at Gullet Quarry on Sunday.

The flooded quarry has claimed the lives of three people in the last 10 years.

"There were hundreds of people at the quarry and it's only a matter of time before there's another tragedy," said Divisional Officer Amos.

DO Amos, who is based in Malvern, said he was shocked to see vandals had cut the rope on the lifebelt beside the water. Every year, usually during heatwaves, the emergency services are called to rescue swimmers who get into trouble at the quarry.

"It's deeper than people think and there are obstacles under the water," said DO Amos.

The water is also cold, even during the summer, and this saps the strength of swimmers.

DO Amos emphasised that drinking and swimming never mix. He said visitors parking on roads leading up to the quarry were also creating problems.

"If there was an emergency, a fire engine or ambulance would have real difficulty getting through," he said.

DO Amos said firefighers would work closely with Malvern Hills Conservators to tackle the problem.

The Conservators have put up signs around the quarry, warning people about the dangers of swimming.

Director Ian Rowat said: "We're doing what we can. One of our staff was out there advising people of the dangers and we replaced the rope on the lifebelt."