Cornwall's harbour masters, who are in charge of some of Cornwall's most popular harbours including Newquay, Truro, Penzance, and St Ives, are warning of the dangers of treating harbours like playgrounds. 

The issue has come to a head in Newquay with a decision to ban the public from accessing the harbour's North Quay in an attempt to ward off the prospect of someone getting seriously injured.  

Cornwall Council Maritime Manager Chris Jones said: "Some people are continuing to ignore safety signs banning diving, jumping into harbours, and swimming. Unfortunately, people don't always appreciate that these by-laws and signs are there for a very good reason – to stop people getting seriously injured or even killed."   

Fishermen and other bona fide harbour users will be able to access North Quay via a gate with a coded padlock, but it will no longer be open to all. 

Newquay Harbour Master Kimberley Johnson commented: "We don't want to stop anyone from having a good time but it's important to realise that this is a working harbour. Which means tombstoning, swimming and effectively treating the harbour as a playground is dangerous both to those doing it, and those who are affected by such behaviour, like our fishermen, who rely on the harbour for their livelihood." 

Harbour Master for Truro and Penryn Mark Killingback added: "Thrill seekers that take part in tombstoning put themselves and others at risk for their entertainment. I have been there in the past when ambulances have arrived and spoken to parents of injured youths. It's not something you think will happen to you but sadly it can, and it does." 

Councillor Loïc Rich, Chair of the Cornwall Harbours Board, said: "For their own safety, we are urging swimmers to stay away from harbours, which can get very busy, especially at this time of the year. We also see people tombstoning which has gained lots of attention for the wrong reasons, with a number of people being seriously hurt across the country. 

"We are asking anyone who is planning on jumping into the water to put their safety first. I'd also ask that parents keep track of their children's activities and remind them of the dangers of tombstoning." 

If you do want to jump from a height into the sea the advice is to join a coasteering group with a professional and reputable adventure centre. A mix of scrambling, climbing, traversing and cliff jumping around the coast with a professional guide means you can learn about the risks involved and have a good experience. 

If you or anyone gets into difficulties around our coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. 

If you're unsure on harbour bylaws, which if violated could lead to enforcement action being taken, including prosecution of offenders, contact your local harbour office.