Sea rescues spark safety warnings

Fresh warnings have been issued about the dangers of walking near cliffs after a boy and a man in his 80s had to be rescued in Northumberland.

A 15-year-old fell 40ft down cliffs onto rocks near Berwick on Sunday. He was airlifted to hospital.

Minutes earlier an 81-year-old man was rescued from the sea at Creswell, after falling 15ft from rocks.

Last week a 17-year-old boy died after jumping from cliffs on South Tyneside in a craze called tombstoning.

In Sunday's incidents a 15-year-old boy was rescued after he fell at Sharpers Head, Fishermans Harbour, near Berwick.

'Popular pastime'

The boy, who was on holiday in the area, suffered serious injuries and was taken by air ambulance to Newcastle General Hospital.

The elderly man who fell into the sea at Creswell was rescued by the Newbiggin inshore RNLI lifeboat.

He was taken to Wansbeck General Hospital, in Ashington, suffering from shock.

Mike Green, watch manger at the Humber Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre, said: "Coastal walking is a very popular pastime in the UK.

"Although a relatively risk-free pursuit, it is still important to be sensible.

"Keep to the path and stay away from cliff edges an follow advisory signs and waymarks.

"Dress sensibly for the terrain and weather - wear suitable clothing and footwear, be ready for possible changes in the weather and always let someone know your whereabouts."