A police investigation is under way following the death of an eight-year-old boy who got into difficulties in a swimming pool.

The tragedy happened at Hambleton Leisure Centre, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, at around 4.25pm on Wednesday and the boy, who was local, was taken to the Friarage Hospital, where efforts to revive him failed.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "Police inquiries to determine the full circumstances surrounding the death are ongoing."

The local authority-run pool will remain closed until further notice. A spokesman said: "This is a tragic accident and we send out condolences to the family of this young boy.

"As a mark of respect, the leisure centre will be closed until further notice."

Councillor Peter Wilkinson, cabinet member for health, which incorporates leisure, said: "It is a tragedy and our condolences go out to the family.

"Losing an eight-year-old like this must be horrendous".