Teenager in 'near fatal' 'tombstoning' accident in Falmouth (From Falmouth Packet)

Teenager in 'near fatal' 'tombstoning' accident in Falmouth

11:07am Thursday 28th June 2012 in Falmouth/Penryn By Emma Ferguson, News Editor

A “near fatal” accident involving a teenager in Falmouth has prompted a warning by police over the dangers of ‘tombstoning.’ This is becoming an increasingly popular pastime for thrill-seekers, who jump off cliffs and high walls into the water below.

However, in recent days one teenager came “dangerously close” to being dragged under the propellers of a large pleasure boat in Falmouth, after he jumped from the Prince of Wales Pier.

PC Andy Hocking, from Falmouth Police Station, said: “We are receiving calls from harbour authorities and boat operators that a recent spate of ‘tombstoning’ from the town's quays and harbour walls have resulted in near fatal consequences.

“This practice is dangerous and in some circumstances unlawful.”

He reminded people that Falmouth was a busy working port, with regular boat movements.