Portishead youngsters taking 'unnecessary risks' in the water prompts warning from RNLI

Members of the RNLI in Portishead are reminding young people about the dangers of tombstoning and jumping into the Marina, following reports from concerned locals.

The charity said there has been a rise in the number of incidents since the easing of lockdown, involving young people swimming with friends along the coast and in the Marina.

Lifeboat Operations Manager, Dave Slack, has written to local schools asking them to encourage parents and guardians to talk to their children and highlight the dangers.

Reports of youngsters tombstoning from Portishead Pier and jumping into the Marina have been received by emergency services and the RNLI.

Mr Slack said these spots can be used safely but only when there is "appropriate support and supervision."

He also reminded members of the community that swimming in the Marina is prohibited.

Youngsters are reminded that while RNLI volunteer crews in Portishead are there to save lives, there are no lifeguards on the coastline or in the Marina.

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Usually at this time of year the charity sends Education Volunteers into local schools to give beach and water safety advice to students - but the coronavirus pandemic has meant this is not possible at the moment.

Mr Slack said, "May I therefore take this opportunity to urge you all to inform your young people of the dangers on our coast and at the Marina and take extra care when visiting any of the UK’s beaches this year.’

The nearest RNLI lifeguarded beach for people living in the North Somerset town is in Burnham-on-Sea.

Full safety advice can be found here.