A MAN died after falling into a freezing canal — with his carer also dying as he attempted in vain to try and save him from the icy water.

       Cops believe Aaron Ritchie, 49, who had special needs, tumbled in while walking on the towpath on Tuesday.

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       Aaron Ritchie, pictured, died after falling into a freezing canal - with his carer also dying as he attempted to save him Credit: SWNS

       His carer, aged 60, then plunged in after him to try and help him but also got into difficulty.

       Police were called to the Crank Wood canal in Abram, near Leigh, Gtr Manchester, and specialist teams recovered the pair from the water.

       Medics battled to save them, but both later died in hospital. Greater Manchester Police said: “Their deaths are not being treated as suspicious and police are continuing to establish the circumstances behind their deaths.”

       Aaron’s family said they were in “complete shock” over the tragedy.

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       In a statement they said: “Aaron was a loveable character who made a big impression on everyone who knew him.”

       They also added: “We would like to pass on our sincere -condolences to his carer’s family and a special thank you to the emergency services who attended trying to save them.”