Warning to fill holes dug in sand at beaches

Digging holes poses "a safety risk" to others on the beach, Ports of Jersey says

Islanders are being reminded by the Coastguard to fill any large holes they dig in the sand at the beach before leaving.

Jersey Coastguard said digging holes posed "a safety risk" to others and could end in a fatality.

This month, the UK Coastguard said a teenager had been "extremely lucky" not to have suffocated after being buried 7ft (about 2m) deep in sand.

It said: "These holes can collapse without warning, potentially trapping or injuring people. There have been tragic incidents in the UK, including fatalities, where individuals were buried under sand after holes collapsed."

The Coastguard added the holes could become dangerous when left unattended or "obscured by shifting tides".

"Our advice is to be respectful of other beach users and always fill in any holes you have dug before leaving the beach," it said.