Reports of people trying to get pictures of waves sparks coastguard appeal

The coastguard has urged people to stay away from the coast after attempts to grab pictures of the waves.

Storm Eunice arrived this morning, Friday 18th February, bringing extremely high winds, large waves, damage to buildings, and power cuts.

The Met Office issued a red weather warning for parts of Cornwall between 7am and 12pm, and a further amber warning is in place until 9pm today.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said there had been multiple incidents of people at the waterline taking pictures of the large waves, and even of families standing by the surf line with their children.

They said the reports of people attempting to get the photos are "absolutely terrifying".

HM Coastguard Tactical Commander Ben Hambling said:

"The reports we are receiving are absolutely terrifying. In these conditions all it takes is one wave.

"A dramatic photograph or selfie is not worth risking your life for and those who are going to the coast to take pictures are also putting our teams at risk.

"We are urging people in the strongest possible terms to stay away from the coast."

If you do get into trouble or believe anybody to be in difficulty at the coast or at sea, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.