The man who died on Wroxham Broad over the weekend got into difficulties during a midnight swim, lifeboat crews have confirmed.

The man, who was in his 20s, was with a friend on a privately-owned motor launch on the broad when he decided to enter the water. However, he did not return to the surface.

READ MORE: Body of man in his 20s found at Wroxham Broad after search

The incident happened at about 11.30pm on Friday and emergency services went to the scene and began a search.

Their efforts continued over the weekend and the man's body was found at about 2.15pm on Sunday.

READ MORE: Search for man who went missing in Wroxham Broad at night

Emergency services at the sceneEmergency services at the scene (Image: Newsquest)

Chris Batten, from the Hemsby lifeboat - which was part of the search team - said: “We believe it was a simple accident.

“They were two close friends enjoying the summer, who thought it was a nice idea to have an evening swim.

“Both were strong, fit young men and both confident swimmers according to the families."

He added: “The incident serves as a stark reminder of the tragic consequences that can occur even for strong swimmers entering the water unprepared.

“Although the broads are beautiful to visit, under the surface there are many unseen hazards, which is why we say wear a buoyancy aid even if you are swimming.

“We would advise people not to swim, but you can’t. We instead advise that people are prepared."

Wroxham Broad - one of the largest on the waterways - remained closed throughout the weekend while the search was ongoing.

Following the incident, the boat involved was moored up at Norfolk Broads Yacht Club, which is based on the broad.

It suspended its activities over the weekend while vessels on the River Bure, which passes the broad, were stopped from entering.

Police have said the man's family have been informed. Officers say they are treating the death as unexplained, but that it is not suspicious.

A Broads Authority spokesperson said: “The Broads Authority is saddened to learn of the tragic death of a young man at Wroxham over the weekend and our thoughts are with his family and friends and those dealing with the incident.

"Whilst the incident happened on a private area of water, the Authority offered assistance to the emergency services and helped restrict access to Wroxham Broad.

"Without wishing to speculate on the circumstances, this tragic incident highlights the importance of remaining vigilant regarding water safety.”