Simon Daniels, a personal trainer from Cheshire, got into difficulty on the Oldham reservoir
Tributes have been paid to a charismatic personal trainer who tragically died after falling into Dovestone Reservoir while paddleboarding. Just hours before the incident, Simon Daniels, from Winsford, Cheshire, shared a poignant message on social media about breaking down stigmas and being a positive role model.
On Sunday, October 20, Simon and a woman were paddleboarding on the reservoir when they got into difficulty and fell into the water. Despite a massive emergency response, including police, fire crews, and paramedics, Simon sadly didn’t resurface.
A major search operation was launched, and a scene was put in place before his body was recovered on Wednesday, October 23. Earlier that day, Simon had posted an inspirational message on Facebook, which has since received over 700 likes.
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In the post, he encouraged people to break down stigmas and be a positive influence in the gym, saying: “Break the stigma. You don’t have to be the ‘angry big guy’ in the gym. Instead, be the person who smiles, offers a helping hand, and inspires others to push themselves. We all started somewhere. Remember, the gym should be a place where people feel empowered, not intimidated.”
“The younger generation is watching—be a role model. Show them that strength isn’t just about muscles, but also about kindness, patience, and encouragement. Let’s create an environment where everyone feels welcome to chase their goals.”, reports the Manchester Evening News.
In a statement issued through Greater Manchester Police, his family said: “Simon is our world, he’s funny, unpredictable and has a heart as big as an ocean. His larger than life and his crazy personality lit up every room and his love, kindness and inspiration touched so many people who he met.”
“Simon was a friend to everyone, nobody was a stranger in his eyes. His passions were fitness and the gym and helping others to become the best version of themselves.”
“His heart was pure and he was unapologetically himself. Funny doesn’t cut it. He was hilarious. He had this power to bring everyone together. He just wanted everyone to be friends.”
“He loved life and even at the darkest of times he still managed to light up the room. The community have also shown how much they loved Simon, church bells have rang in his memory along with fireworks. We had no idea how popular and inspirational he was in our local community.”
His friends have launched a fundraiser to support the family, which has raised almost £20,000. Tributes for much-loved Simon have poured in on GoFundMe, as one woman described him as “an incredible spirit, warm heart, bucketfuls of character and care for all,” adding his death was “a huge loss to the whole community.” A report is being prepared for the coroner following Simon’s death, according to GMP.
