The police are forced to deal with the problem each year and have been keeping a close eye on the bridge as the temperature has risen.

Already a number of youngsters have been approached and warned of the folly of their actions.

Anyone aware of the dangerous behaviour is being asked to contact the force.

A police spokeswoman said, “Tayside Police have received several reports of youngsters jumping off the Queen’s Bridge in Perth into the River Tay.

“I cannot stress enough how dangerous this is.

“These youngsters are always expecting to land in deep water and that might not always be the case.

“The weather may be hot but this is not the best way to cool off.

“Even if they do land in deep water, the currents are strong enough to drag even the strongest of swimmers underneath the water.

The spokeswoman added, “I would urge parents to speak to their children about this dangerous practice before someone is seriously injured or killed.”

Those youngsters foolish enough to make the leap are being warned they risk not only their own lives, but also those of people who may need to rescue them.

Perth and Kinross Council also admitted it was deeply concerned.

A council spokeswoman said, “Perth and Kinross Council would strongly discourage young people from jumping into the River Tay from the city’s bridges, especially Queen’s Bridge.

“The river is at times very fast flowing and also has strong undercurrents.

“Water levels can be comparatively low over the summer months and jumping into shallow water from a height risks severe injury.”

The council recommends people looking to cool off during the summer take advantage of the facilities at Perth Leisure Pool.

The Tay’s surface hides a multitude of hazards, such as weeds and sharp objects, with the river at Perth no stranger to drifting branches and wood

In addition, the water temperature can be deceptively cold. Poor visibility can also make gauging the depth of the water an impossible task.