Lifeboat crew says bad parking puts lives at risk

Ross Cooper from Humber Rescue said people parking in front of their doors has caused problems when responding to call-outs

A lifeboat station has issued a warning to visitors after their boat was blocked in by parked cars.

Humber Rescue, based at Hessle Foreshore, said a white BMW was left in front of their boathouse and delayed their response to an emergency incident on Sunday.

The area has several signs urging people to park away from the large shutter doors.

In a post on social media, the crew described the situation as "irresponsible behaviour" and criticised people for ignoring the signs and markings.

The charity, which was established in 1989, provides search and rescue in the Humber Estuary as well as the Rivers Hull, Trent and Ouse.

Crew member Ross Cooper told BBC Radio Humberside they were unable to move vehicles due to insurance and it was down to members of the public to park responsibly.

"The two yellow doors say emergency access, we have cones and bollards to show the area we launch from and on the ground we have keep clear markings.

"The park is a beautiful place to be and everyone wants to enjoy it. Unfortunately, parking in inconvenient places has a detrimental effect on us launching.

"We aim to launch within 10 minutes of getting a call and every second counts when it comes to saving a life.

"The park is a beautiful place to be and everyone wants to enjoy it. There is plenty of parking elsewhere on the foreshore".

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