Pier callout for emergency services after reports of person in difficulty

The town’s own Coastguard Rescue Team was joined by their colleagues from Sunderland following calls of concern at 8.43pm yesterday, Thursday, February 4.

A spokesperson for the Sunderland team said: “Coastguard officers carried out a search of the area and made contact with a fisherman in the area who was in no difficulty.

"With no signs of anyone in distress or evidence of anyone on the pier the call was a false alarm with good intent.”

They added the incident provided the opportunity for Dave Small to to receive his 20 years long service medal from Senior Coastal Operations Officer Adam Turner.

The spokesperson said: “Due to Covid restrictions we have not had the opportunity to award the medal, so the Port of Seaham provided a backdrop for a impromptu, Covid-secure medal ceremony.”

The region’s Coastguard teams have also urged people to take caution as severe weather warnings have been issued for large areas across the UK, with a number covering the North East.

Gusts of 45mph have been forecast, which will result in heavy seas and high waves.

The service advises people to exercise away from the coastline, keep away from breaking waves and take caution as rocks and paths will be slippery.

It also says people should wear the right clothing while out and to take a whistle and torch as a way of calling for help, with the suggestion they let someone know the intended walking route and return time.

In any coastal emergency, people should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

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