The man was swimming in Windermere. Photo: Abbasi 1111

A man has died while taking part in a major outdoor swimming event in the Lake District.

The man, in his 50s and from the South of England, was taking part in the Great North Swim in Windermere yesterday.

Cumbria Constabulary said officers were alerted at 4.40pm and an air ambulance flew to the scene and airlifted him to Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle.

Police said he suffered a medical emergency.

A force spokesperson said: “His death is not being treated as suspicious, and his family are being supported at this difficult time. The coroner has been informed.”

A statement from event organisers Nova International said: “Nova International deeply regrets the tragic loss of life at the Great North Swim and offer our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family and friends of the individual concerned.

“In the case of fatality there is a strictly planned procedure that we adhere to with the professional organisations. We must ensure that the next of kin are informed before any further comment is made but we will provide an update as soon as we are in a position to do so.”