Coastal erosion takes Hemsby Lifeboat out of service again
More damage was caused by high tides on Thursday night
Last updated 21st Apr 2023
Hemsby Independent Lifeboat Service has been taken out of action again after high tides last night (20/4)
More than eight feet of beach has now disappeared from Hemsby near Great Yarmouth in recent months.
Save Hemsby coastline are working hard to continue raising awareness of the problem and raise funds to help protect the dunes, coastlines and peoples livelihoods.
The Independent lifeboat service along with campaign group 'Save Hemsby Coastine' are asking people to help by signing a petition for change to the coastal policy.
Lorna Bevan, founder of the campaign group is calling on the government for more support:
'We are not actually in decline here in this area, we are vibrant and working really really well, but if they don't give us this preservation for the coastline we absolutely be in decline and calling for them to support us with social care rather than being able to give to them to provide to other areas."
"The holiday makers that come to Hemsby bring £88Million every singel year and between us and the two villages next door boardering on our coastline its £180million every single year. Where else in the UK does a village of so few number bring so much to the bigger picture."
In a Facebook post the Hemsby Lifeboat said they were disappointed to be out of service but they have no choice:
"Sadly we have had to take the ILB off service again due to fresh erosion to the Gap area after last night's high tide. This is so disappointing, but we have no choice at the moment. We obviously need this repaired as soon as possible, but compliance with regulations could make that a very protracted process.
What is clear is repairing it so that normal service can be resumed as soon as possible is essential. Our dilemma is whether the powers will take the right action or will we need to seek forgiveness, as this is often easier than seeking permission? In reality, we don't want to be a political animal; we want to operate our Lifeboat and save lives...
In the meantime, please be aware the area is unsafe and great care should be taken".
You can find out more about 'Save Hemsby Coastline' and how you can help on their website.