'Love It Like It's Yours' campaign drives home Holy Island safe crossing message
Drivers are being reminded to check the safe crossing times before travelling to the Holy Island, as part of the County Council's responsible tourism campaign.
It comes after new drone footage filmed at the weekend captured motorists crossing while water was still on the causeway.
In May, two children were among a group of four people who became stranded after being cut off by the tide in one of a series of rescues at the Northumberland beauty spot.
The local authority’s “Love it Like it’s Yours” campaign is back for a sixth year, encouraging visitors to enjoy the county responsibly this summer.
As well as the safe crossing times, the campaign highlights the dangers of wild fires, water safety, and responsible parking.
Councillor John Riddle, Cabinet Member for Environment and Rural at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are delighted that each year people enjoying our wonderful coastline and countryside respect our county – and this campaign serves as a good reminder about the do’s and don’ts for their visits.
“It’s simple straightforward advice which can ensure everyone now and in the future gets the most out of our fantastic county.”
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In recent weeks, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service has hosted a major multi-agency wildfire training exercise involving emergency services, local authorities and partner organisations from across the region to prepare for large-scale incidents during the summer.
The exercise, delivered in collaboration with the Northumbria Local Resilience Forum, involved organisations including Northumbria Police, HM Coastguard, neighbouring fire and rescue services, Northumberland County Council, Gateshead Council, Forestry England, the Environment Agency, the British Red Cross, North East Ambulance Service, local Mountain Rescue Teams and others.
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Rob Stacey, Wildfire Team Leader at Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Visitors should avoid lighting campfires or barbecues and instead pack a picnic.
“Clearing away all rubbish is vital, as even a small shard of glass or a carelessly discarded cigarette, can spark a fire that escalates rapidly.
“We’d also ask people to park considerately and not block roads, tracks or gates - please leave space for our fire appliances to access areas if we need to.
"And also be careful where you park - and do not park on top of long grasses and vegetation where hot parts of the car could ignite a fire.
“Anyone who sees a fire should call 999 immediately rather than trying to put it out themselves. If they can establish a precise location, perhaps using their phone, that could also save vital minutes.
“As well as destroying the countryside, wildlife habitats and residents’ property, wildfires can have fatal consequences if people become trapped by approaching flames including a real risk to firefighters.”
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