Coastguard causeway warning after second stranding

The Coastguard are reminding people of the dangers of tidal causeways, in light of two strandings at the Brough of Birsay this summer.

The latest of these occurred on Tuesday morning, when two people were cut off by the rising tide at the Brough.

After being brought food and water by crew members from the Stromness lifeboat, the individuals were escorted back to the Mainland by a Coastguard rescue team, around 4pm, when the tide was low enough to safely use the causeway.

The Coastguard said the people did the right thing in taking a mobile phone with them on their trip and for calling the emergency services for help as soon as they realised they were cut off.

A coastguard spokeswoman said: “At sea, changes in tidal streams could make conditions worse, particularly if the wind and tide are against each other.

“Tidal heights may also hide underwater hazards. Consider whether you could become cut off by the incoming tide; above all do not take risks.”