'We can't fix stupid' - councillor reacts after another vehicle becomes stranded on Holy Island causeway
Last updated 6th Aug 2024
Yet another reminder is being issued to visitors to check the tide times before travelling to and from the Holy Island.
It comes after another vehicle became stranded on the causeway yesterday (Monday).
Berwick Coastguard team were scrambled to the Northumberland beauty spot after the alarm was raised around 3.45pm - more than an hour after the last safe crossing time.
The occupants had managed to wade their way back to shore. But they had to wait until the water receded to recover their vehicle.
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."
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A responsible tourism campaign reminding people of the dangers was relaunched last month - 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.
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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.”
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A team of water safety volunteers are operating on the island this summer to highlight the safe-crossing times in a drive to reduce the number of rescues.
Nick Ayers, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, North and East, said: “The RNLI would always urge visitors to observe the safety signage and safe crossing times when visiting.
“The Holy Island Task force has already been actively chatting with visitors to the island and hope to be present across the summer holiday period.”
To check times go to: https://holyislandcrossingtimes.northumberland.gov.uk/
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