A Stormy Start

As the New Year gets under way, massive seas and strong winds have been battering the Northumberland coastline. An important reminder of the power of the sea, it is always amazing how much can change in the space of a few days.

© Allan Watson

On the ominous day of Friday 13^th, the coastal rangers and volunteers braved the elements to complete a bird survey. Battered by the winds and a fair amount of sleet, they survived to tell the tale and although there weren’t many birds to spot at sea they were treated to some spectacular rolling breakers.

Despite the wild sea, the coastline seemed to be holding its own. But over the following weekend, high tides cut away the dune edges at Seahouses and Newton Links. The wooden boards of a bridge at Embleton were wrenched from the support beams and floated upstream and there is no sign of the bottom few steps at Beadnell’s southern beach entrance. Evidence of an incredibly high tide line was littered all the way along the coast.

The tide creeping up a footpath in the dunes © Kevin Redgrave

The rangers have since been busy checking the properties and trying to repair any damage. Although we have been relatively lucky this time and damage has been minimal. We are constantly working to ensure our coastline is able to adapt to these weather events. Looking after 755 miles of UK coastline, the National Trust aims to work with nature to manage our changing coastline. We want to innovate – to have the courage to try out new ideas; and to be driven by long-term sustainable plans.

If you want to find out more about the National Trusts plans for the future management of our coastline visit:

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/living-with-change-our-shifting-shores

Family Bushcraft Day

Looking for opportunities to get the family outdoors this half term? Join the coastal ranger team for a morning of bushcraft activities at Druridge Bay. To book your place please ring: 01665 576 874