Two people who had to be rescued by fire crews after getting stuck on the top of cliffs at Cheddar Gorge last night (Sunday February 7th) were handed fines for non-essential travel by Police.
Fire appliances and Police officers from the Burnham-On-Sea area were called to Cheddar Gorge after the alarm was raised by a third person about the two stranded on cliff face.
Their trip to the Gorge was non-essential and resulted in a £200 penalty.
All three individuals had travelled more than 30 miles from South Gloucestershire, and were reported for breaching Covid regulations.
Somerset Area Commander Mike Prior said: “Climbing the Gorge in near darkness is extremely unwise under any circumstances.”
“However, it’s also particularly concerning that the individuals chose to make this unnecessary journey in clear breach of Covid-19 regulations, which are in place to help protect the NHS and save lives.”
“This reckless decision resulted in a complicated and lengthy rescue, requiring the temporary closure of the B3135 Cliff road, and attendance from multiple emergency services, including four police officers and 20 fire service staff.”
“Once again, we are urging people stay at home and avoid all unnecessary travel.”
“We will not hesitate to issue fines to those deliberately breaching the regulations with no regard for the safety of others.”
An aerial ladder platform was brought in by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, as pictured to reach the duo.
Under current Covid restrictions during the national lockdown, you must stay at home unless you have a legally permitted reason to do so: see the rules that apply here.
Pictured: Fire crews rescuing the two people in Cheddar Gorge on Sunday night (Photo Avon & Somerset Police)
