Dopey driver sparks multiple 999 calls after falling asleep on Holy Island causeway
Last updated 26th Jul 2024
A dopey driver sparked an emergency response after falling asleep on the Holy Island causeway - unaware of the rising tide.
Seahouses inshore lifeboat raced to the Northumberland beauty spot, along with local Coastguard teams, amid fears the man's vehicle could be washed away with him trapped inside.
Multiple 999 calls were made as the dramatic scenes unfolded shortly before 6pm last night (Friday) - more than an hour after the last safe crossing time.
However, when they arrived, they discovered the driver of the 4x4 had managed to move his vehicle to higher ground.
The "unusual" call-out has prompted renewed warnings to motorists heading to the area.
Ian Clayton, a spokesperson for the local lifeboat station, said: "The fast rising tide did initially concern the rescue authorities, but the driver was able to rescue his situation.
"If you are fatigued while driving, and need a rest, please be careful where you choose to pull over and park up.
"Fortunately, the driver must have awoken and realised his situation and was able to quickly get his vehicle to higher ground.
"Meanwhile concerned members of the public had correctly made multiple 999 calls to report the incident."
High tide at Holy Island on Friday was at 6.51pm, and the Causeway was closed by the tide from 4.25pm until 10.20pm.
Ian added: "No further assistance was required, and the lifeboat returned to station."
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It's the latest in a series of call-outs to the causeway already this year.
In May, we reported how two German tourists were heard shouting for help after they became stranded - chest deep in water - on the road, which links the Northumberland beauty spot with the mainland.
The language barrier was blamed for them being unable to read the safe crossing times.
The pair managed to wade to safety in the refuge hut to await rescue, and later recovered their bike which had been swept away.
The following day, two people and their dog were found on the roof of their partially-submerged car.
Coastguard teams from Berwick and the Holy Island were scrambled, along with lifeboats from Berwick and Seahouses and a Coastguard helicopter.
Anyone venturing to the Holy Island is being urged to plan ahead, and check the tide times.
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