Marshals to patrol riverside to keep crowds safe

Specially trained marshals will patrol York's riverside areas on Saturday afternoons and bank holiday weekends to keep people safe near the water.

Two marshals will monitor the area around King's Staith from 12:00 BST to 20:00 BST to provide support and tackle anti-social behaviour, according to York Business Improvement District (BID).

Currently in its fourth year, the project, which launches in June, plays a crucial role in creating a safe environment, according to the BID.

Project manager Rachel Bean said: "The river marshals are there to support businesses in making sure that everyone is enjoying the river in a way that doesn't deter other people."

She added: "The deaths that have taken place from people entering the river are very well-known in York.

"Maintaining river safety is a very important issue and as beautiful as it is, the river can be dangerous."

The marshals are funded by the York and North Yorkshire police, fire and crime commissioner.

York Rescue Boat also works closely with the BID to promote river safety.

The BID's operations manager, Carl Alsop. said: "We're pleased to bring the riverside marshal programme back to support York's brilliant riverside businesses as we head into the busy summer period."

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