Bank holiday warning after Northumberland coastguard call out to 'struggling' paddle boarders
Emergency services have issued a bank holiday weekend warning to coastal visitors about the dangers of the North Sea after they were called out to help “struggling” paddle boarders.
The Howick Coastguard Rescue Team were alerted by colleagues at the Humber Coastguard service to reports that the boarders were in difficulty in water off the north side of Beadnell Bay, Northumberland, at 6.09pm on Sunday, August 30.
Speaking after the incident, a spokesperson for the Howick team said: “The first informant reported that they appeared to be struggling to get back to the shore
“As the team were en route, Humber informed us that the paddle boarders had made it back to shore.
"A doctor, who happened to be on the beach, had checked them over and found they were uninjured. The team were stood down and returned to station.
“We are expecting large numbers of people visiting Northumberland this weekend. Please take care along our coast.
"Whilst the sea may look inviting, the North Sea is a cold sea all year round and has several areas that are dangerous to swim with hidden obstacles, strong currents and rip tides. If in doubt then stay out.”
The Howick team will be working on Bank Holiday Monday, August 31, to keep the Northumberland coast safe and the spokesperson added: “Remember, in an emergency at sea or on the coast, or if you think someone may be in difficulty, always call the Coastguard by dialling 999.”