Tribute Paid To Manchester Toddler Who Drowned In Pool

A devastated father has paid tribute to his little girl who drowned in a swimming pool at a gym in Salford Quays.

Zainab Yusuf, aged 22 months, was at the fitness centre with her parents and six-month-old sister Zarah when the tragic accident happened.

It is believed the youngster wandered off alone and within moments drowned in the pool at the Esporta fitness centre at the Lowry Outlet Mall in Salford Quays.

Police were called and the girl was rushed to hospital but died a short time after the accident, at around 4.40pm on Sunday.

At the time the pool was being used for a parent and child swim session.

The child's father Zakary, from Ordsall, Salford, said: "Zainab was a much loved little girl, and will be sorely missed by all her family and friends.

"She was such a happy child, bright and loving, with a smile that could light up a room.

"Zainab could never be replaced and will always be in our hearts.

"We are devastated at the loss of Zainab and ask that we be allowed to grieve in peace.''

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the baby's death is ongoing but there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances.