A CHILD has died after emergency services were scrambled yesterday (March 13) to rescue a woman and a three-year-old boy from a canal in Newbury.

A major 999 operation unfolded when it happened about 2pm.

Thames Valley Police said it was called to reports that a woman and three year old had fallen into the water of the Kennet & Avon Canal.

All emergency services were called to the scene near Ash Bridge, close to the A339, Newbury.

The force said both were recovered from the water and taken to hospital.

Today, officers confirmed the child tragically died later in hospital. His family are being supported by specially trained officers and his mother has been discharged from hospital.

West Berkshire police said: "The death is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.

"Our thoughts are with the child’s family at this incredibly difficult time. Thames Valley Police is not currently in a position to release the child’s identity."