“Frustrated” locals are being urged to avoid the wreckage of an abandoned boat washed up on a beach more than six weeks ago.
The vessel has been sitting on the sands of King Edward’s Bay, in Tynemouth, North Tyneside, since 10 September following the rescue of a sailor who said he had been at sea for 45 days.
It has since broken up and a notice has appeared nearby appealing for volunteers to help with a clear-up.
However, local councillor Julie Day warned people would be putting their safety at risk and is calling for them to wait for the wreckage to be removed by the local council or the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
It is unclear who has put the clean-up sign in place at steps overlooking the bay.
North Tyneside Council has been reported as saying it was likely the wreckage could be taken away “next week” and Labour’s Day says that would be the best course of action.
“The council is dealing with it – they are talking to the owner’s family. Unfortunately it’s taking longer than hoped because the council has to follow the law.
“I know people are frustrated and worried about the impact it’s having on the beach, and I can see people [behind the clean-up appeal] are acting with the best of intentions.
“But there’s a potential safety issue and it’s also illegal to touch a wreck. I’d ask people to hang on for it to be dealt with through the proper channels. It’s not that much longer to wait.”
Tynemouth Volunteer Life BrigadeThe council has been approached for comment.
It previously said it was “keeping a close eye on the situation while working with partners to make sure the proper legal steps are followed so it can be removed as soon as possible”.
Lifeboat volunteers had helped the elderly man off the boat after reports it was dangerously close to rocks.
He was then treated by paramedics.
At the time of the rescue, the Ministry of Defence confirmed an Army bomb disposal team had been called out and “black powder” was taken back to its barracks.
It has not issued any further updates.