Security staff guard quarry after Augusto Zacarias tragedy

Security staff have been drafted in to guard a disused quarry 24 hours a day after a 15-year-old boy drowned there.

Augusto Zacarias died after falling into the Blue Lagoon waters at the Marl Hole pool near the Crooked House pub in Himley last week.

The budding footballer, who was on holiday from Portugal, was described by his family as their "pride and joy".

Following his death, site owner Wienerberger has stepped up security in a bid to prevent people getting in.

Wienerberger spokeswoman Heather Butler said: "There is currently 24-hour security at the site and we are working closely with the police regarding both the ongoing investigation and future arrangements.

"It would not be appropriate for us to comment further until that investigation has been concluded."

Bosses say the quarry is surrounded by a 6ft-high chain link fence topped with barbed wire, all gates are locked and that there are warning signs and regular inspections.

Calls have been made for security to be tightened at the site after hundreds of young people were seen there during a heatwave in the days leading up to Augusto's death.

South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson said: "These areas of open water are very dangerous and children do not always understand the risks.

"It is important to now look at what can be done to ensure people don't continue to swim there and make it clear it's not safe for them to swim there."

Augusto was visiting family from Portugal with his parents, Paulina and Pedro, as well as his young brother, and had been in the country less than three weeks. He had only days ago celebrated his 15th birthday.