Second rescue on Holy Island causeway in less than a week 'a stark reminder' to check safe-crossing times

On arrival at scene the Helm Tris Owens assessed the situation and carefully maneuvered the D-Class to a position where the crew were able to safely reach and rescue the casualties.

Author: Ally McGilvrayPublished 29th Aug 2025
Last updated 29th Aug 2025

Rescuers called out to save motorists cut off by the rising tide on the Holy Island causeway for the second time in less than a week say it's a stark reminder of the need to check safe crossing times.

We previously reported how five people sparked a multi-agency response after attempting to cross during August 21st's high tide.

Three children were found perched on the roof of the car, which was partially submerged under water, while two adults clung on to the door frames, with the vehicle at risk of being swept away.

Now, it's emerged, just six days later - around 5.40pm on Wednesday (August 27th) - Seahouses lifeboat had to be called out again, after two people were reported trapped on the roof of their vehicle - one-and-a-half hours after the last safe crossing time.

In April, we reported how motorists were captured ignoring safe crossing times on the Holy Island causeway - just a day after emergency teams were scrambled to the Northumberland beauty spot to rescue four people, whose vehicles were trapped by the rising tide.

The casualties were able to wade through the water to the nearby refuge hut before their rescuers arrived.

They were transported to the mainland "visibly cold" and transferred into the care of the North East Ambulance Service, with the support of Coastguard teams from Berwick and Seahouses.

It's the latest in a series of rescues at the Northumberland beauty spot, despite efforts to warn drivers not to risk it.

Interest in the area is expected to increase this year after the island, and its causeway, featured in Danny Boyle's latest movie 28 Years Later.

It's prompted renewed calls for barriers - or traffic lights - to be installed between the island and the mainland.

RNLI volunteer crew member Chris Leicester said: "This is a really positive result from an incredibly dangerous situation.

"This is our second shout to the Causeway in under a week and a stark reminder to all visitors to Holy Island you have to check safe crossing times."

Planning a visit? Check the safe crossing times here.

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