SOUTHEND'S Coastguard has warned against the dangers of tombstoning after the service was called out to reports of teenagers jumping into dangerous waters as Storm Evert swept in.

HM Coastguard Southend received a call from a member of the public at 6.10pm reporting that a group of five teenagers could be in danger as Storm Evert caused choppy water conditions off Barge Pier in Shoebury.

By the time coastguard officers arrived alongside an RNLI Southend lifeboat, the teenagers were safely out of the water.

Coastguards said the teenagers were very apologetic after being given a stern warning. 

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“Tombstoning” is the term to describe jumping from height into the water from a platform – usually a cliff, bridge, or pier.

Echo: Having a word - Southend Coastguard at the scene speaking to the teenagersHaving a word - Southend Coastguard at the scene speaking to the teenagers

The activity is particularly popular during spring and summer months; but strong currents, choppy water conditions, and tides altering the depth of the water make it a potentially dangerous activity.

HM Coastguard were particularly concerned the teenagers were engaged in tombstoning given the perilous weather conditions caused by Storm Evert across the East coast of England.

The teenagers were said to be very apologetic to the coastguard in the aftermath of the call-out.