Torbay tombstoning fears as youths leap from unsafe jetty

Police urge young people to stay away from unsafe Brixham breakwater structure after reports of dangerous jumps into the sea

Reporter:

Jim Parker

15 Aug 2025 7:30 AM

Email:

jim.parker@clearskypublishing.co.uk

Brixham police have warned young tombstoners 'you are dicing with danger.'

Police and other agencies have become aware of reports of young people swimming out to the derelict "bunkering" Jetty off Brixham Breakwater and climbing on to the structure and tombstoning from it.

They are also throwing old netting and other things into the sea.

Brixham police say: "This is highly dangerous as the structure is highly unsound and people climbing on it are putting themselves in danger and those who may be called out to rescue them. Dumping items such as netting into the sea also poses a risk to marine life and boat engines."

They say tombstoning can have severe and life-threatening consequences because:

• Water depths alter with the tide – the water may be shallower than it seems

• Submerged objects like rocks may not be visible – these can cause serious impact injuries

• The shock of cold water can make it difficult to swim

• Getting out of the water is often more difficult than people realise

• Strong currents can rapidly sweep people away

They add any damage caused to property or other criminal offences during such behaviour could lead to prosecution.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents have more detailed information; https://www.rospa.com/water-safety/tombstoning.

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