Hemsby coastal erosion leaves lifeboat unable to launch
Hemsby Lifeboat says they lost 3-4 metres in dunes over the weekend
Coastal erosion in Hemsby over the weekend temporarily left the lifeboat unable to launch.
Posting on social media, Hemsby Lifeboat shared high tides and windy conditions over the weekend resulted in damage to the Gap area, and the loss of 3-4 metres in dunes to the North and South.
They say this resulted in the loss of the Lifeboat Slipway, meaning their service had to be suspended.
It also led to the loss of some outbuildings for one resident and mains water for another eight.
"Real danger of collapse"
Sharing their reaction the group said: "This is very frustrating for all concerned, particularly as we had predicted this, and no affirmative action has been taken. The worst is yet to come.
"Sections of the dunes to the immediate North and South of the Gap are in real danger of collapse, so we urge residents and visitors to be extra vigilant.
"The local authorities did ensure that the resident under threat was temporarily relocated, but we feel it is too little too late once again. The emergency actions were welcomed but were totally avoidable!
"The role of the politicians at all levels is to serve the community.
"The role of our lifeboat is to save lives at sea and the Norfolk Broads; unfortunately, we have to add to our role restoration works because it appears that the mission of politicians to serve is lost in bureaucracy, empty PR and needless posturing.
"The dream is political action designed to serve the community. It is referred to as a dream because serving the community at Hemsby is nothing more than a dream where the coastline is concerned."
More to come
They've also expressed concerns that more erosion will take place in the coming days and months - with cold, wet weather, storms and high tides expected.
Several metres of the cliffside has already been lost to the sea this year, with some residents losing their homes.
There's already a temporary rock barrier in place at the popular holiday destination, but plans for a permanent defensive barrier will need £15m in funding.