Child Swept Into Sea at Ilfracombe Harbour Amid High Tide Chaos
A terrifying moment at Ilfracombe Harbour on August 3 saw a young girl swept into the churning sea during high tide. North Devon Council has issued urgent warnings about the dangers lurking in the area following the close call.
Powerful Wave Strikes Young Girl Playing on Pier
Four children were playing on the notorious pier slipway — an area known for unpredictable sea conditions — when a massive wave struck. The girl was knocked off her feet and swept through the railings into the water.
Thanks to the heroic efforts of two quick-thinking bystanders, she was pulled to safety moments before 7pm. It was a narrow escape that could have ended in tragedy.
Harbourmaster Sounds Warning Over Reckless Behaviour
“This serves as a serious reminder of the potential dangers that can arise in and around the sea. The children were not only fortunate to escape more serious harm, but their actions also endangered their own lives and the lives of the quick-thinking individuals who came to their rescue.” – Harbourmaster Georgina Carlo-Paat
Carlo-Paat criticised the children’s risky behaviour, revealing they kept running into the violent waves even after being knocked down once. She urged everyone to stay vigilant in these unstable conditions.
RNLI Rescue Team Were on Hand During Harbour Exercise
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) was already training nearby in the outer harbour when the incident occurred. Their swift action was vital, treating the children’s injuries and ensuring their safe return home.
Council Reins in Dangerous Tombstoning with Hefty Fines
North Devon Council also warned against tombstoning — jumping or diving from heights into the water — which is banned at Ilfracombe Harbour. Anyone caught faces a £1,000 fine. Risks include uneven water depths, hidden rocks, and strong currents. The council stressed the importance of obeying the rules to avoid disasters.
