Tourists urged to 'leave places as they found them'

The crew at Seahouses RNLI rescued two people and a dog cut off by the tide at Holy Island on Tuesday

Tourists are being urged to "leave places as they found them", as part of efforts to avoid putting themselves - and rescuers - in danger this summer.

Ahead of a rise in visitor numbers over the school holidays, Northumberland County Council has relaunched its annual Love It Like It's Yours campaign which "focuses on crucial issues" such as Holy Island tide times, water safety and the potential for wildfires.

The initiative is based on the countryside code, which provides guidelines for enjoying and preserving the natural environment.

The authority said it wanted people to have "a safe and enjoyable experience, while minimising the impact".

'Vital' message

The campaign relaunch comes days after two people and a dog in a campervan had to be rescued, after getting caught by the rising tide on Holy Island causeway.

Paul Jones, director of environment and local transport services, said the campaign was "a vital method of passing on safety messages" to visitors.

"Basically, we are asking folk to leave places as they found them - as they would expect visitors to their own homes to do," he said.

Mr Jones added: "Each year tourists are trapped on the causeway when the tide comes in, putting themselves and the people who have to rescue them in danger.

"This is so easily avoided just by checking the tide times."

He continued: "When the ground is dry, fires are so easily started by leaving barbecues, bottles or glass. We'd urge everyone to avoid barbecues, and to take their litter home.

"Cold-water shock is a real danger, especially to young people who think entering the water is a good way to cool down but don't understand the perils.

"The last thing we want is for people to be injured, or worse."