Four people rescued from rising tide after becoming stranded on Holy Island causeway
It was a first shout for Berwick's new lifeboat, but a familiar story...
Last updated 22nd Oct 2024
Four people have had to be rescued from the Holy Island causeway after becoming stranded by the rising tide.
Two coastguard officers waded out to the refuge hut to reach the casualties after the alarm was raised shortly after the last safe crossing time, around 4.20pm yesterday (Monday).
And a vehicle was found swept off the road.
The casualties were picked up by Berwick's new inshore lifeboat, which was responding to its first call since arriving at the station in September.
A spokesperson for Berwick Coastguard said: "The four casualties were placed into the lifeboat and transported to shallower water, where they were brought to dry land in our ResQ Sled.
"This exact scenario is very well rehearsed with our local teams - regular training, many similar past incidents, and excellent joint working between Coastguard and RNLI all ensured the safest conclusion to this incident."
It's the latest in a series of call-outs to the Northumberland beauty spot so far this year.
And visitors are being urged to stick to the safe crossing times.
Following a rescue in August, local mechanic turned councillor Colin Hardy told Greatest Hits Radio: “I first started pulling cars off Holy Island way back in 1965. Since then, the council has put in turning circles, and has notices displayed on both sides of the causeway.
"We have an interactive timetable that everyone passes on their way onto the island, and we have adequate notices along the causeway - warning people not to drive into the North Sea. But, unfortunately, some people still choose to do so."
And he added: "We can fix a lot of things, but we can't fix stupid."
A responsible tourism campaign reminding people of the dangers was relaunched in the summer - just days after two people had to be rescued, along with a dog, when their campervan became stranded by the tide.
Despite the warnings, around 10 to 20 vehicles are stranded each year.
Councillor Gordon Stewart, Cabinet Member for Looking after our Communities and Chair of the Fire Authority, said: “It is crucial for visitors to heed these times strictly, as the tide rises rapidly and without warning, turning the causeway from a road to a waterway within a matter of minutes.
“These incidents strain local emergency services and are, for the most part, avoidable with a little forethought. As they say ‘time and tide wait for no man’ - a truth which those who try to outrun the water soon learn.
“Holy Island causeway offers a magical passage to a place rich in history and natural beauty, it also demands respect for the forces of nature. Visitors must remain vigilant and informed to enjoy a safe and memorable experience.”
To check the safe crossing times visit - https://holyislandcrossingtimes.northumberland.gov.uk/