POLICE had to be called to the Gullett Quarry on the hottest day of the year because people were swimming in the lake, which claimed two lives three years ago.

Officers were also called out to the beauty spot on Saturday after people were once again defying the safety warnings.

And Malvern Hills Conservators have this week repeated their message to visitors to stay out of the lake near Castlemorton Common.

Conservation officer Beck Baker said: "Tuesday last week was the hottest day of the year and there were people entering the water. Our wardens told them about the dangers, and urged them to get out of the lake.

"There were quite a lot of people there, and we had to call the police because people were putting themselves at risk."

"After those very hot days, it's quietened down, but with the school summer holidays beginning, we'll be keeping a close eye on the Gullett."

Swimming in the lake can prove fatal because its waters remain cold, which can cause problems for even the strongest swimmer, including sudden cramps. Justas Juzenas, aged 22, of Ross-on-Wye, and Russell O’Neill, aged 17, of Worcester, died there within a week of each other in July 2013.

The Conservators commissioned the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents to produce a report on the quarry following the deaths.

Among the report's recommendations that have been carried out are better signs and higher fences, and thick vegetation has been planted to impede access.

Police inspector Deborah Sanders said: "Officers will continue to patrol Gullet Quarry over the summer, working closely with wardens from the Malvern Hills Conservators, to keep people safe and remind them of the dangers of swimming in the water.

"The vast majority of the public listen to our warnings and enjoy the area in a safe and responsible way, but we will continue to remind anyone found swimming of the serious danger they are putting themselves."

Swimming in the quarry is banned under Conservators ' bylaws, with a potential fine of up to £500. It is also an offence for people found in the prohibited area not not to give personal details when requested by a Malvern Hills warden, police officer or community support officer.