Warning as youths seen 'tombstoning' near Amble

A rescue team has issued a plea for people not to be tempted to jump into the sea from the cliffs after youths were seen ‘tombstoning’ near Amble.

By Fiona Thompson

Published 25th Jun 2020, 10:00 BST

Updated 25th Jun 2020, 10:01 BST

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Amble Coastguard Rescue Team were tasked at around 6.30pm yesterday, Wednesday, June 24, following reports of youths seen jumping off the cliffs just south of the town.

The service has warned leaping into the water from a height, known as tombstoning, can be fatal and can also cause serious injuries such as a broken neck or spine, paralysis.

Yesterday was the hottest day of the year so far, with today expected to hit even higher temperatures.

Hour-by-hour temperature forecast as the sunny weather continues across Northumb...

A spokesperson for the team said: “Upon arrival on scene there was no sign of the youths, though it was determined after speaking to witnesses that the youths had all safely cleared the area.

“With a rise in the temperature we see more people coming to visit our beautiful coastline.

“We also see a rise in the number of people, particularly young people, jumping off harbour walls, piers, jetty’s and cliffs.

Amble Coastguard Rescue Team has issued a warning about the dangers of tombstoning following a call out. Image used with courtesy of Howick Coastguard Rescue Team.

Amble Coastguard Rescue Team has issued a warning about the dangers of tombstoning following a call out. Image used with courtesy of Howick Coastguard Rescue Team.

“The latter is known as tombstoning for good reason.

“You never know what is beneath the surface of the water or at times how deep the water is. The practice of jumping off these structures is extremely dangerous and can result in horrific injuries and even death.

“Don’t jump into the unknown.”

They added in an emergency at sea or on the coast, or if it is thought someone may be in difficulty, always call the Coastguard by dialling 999.

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