Reckless 'tombstoners' leap off The Round Tower and Hot Walls as footage shows adults and children 'risking their lives'

Reckless tombstoners have been “risking their lives” by launching themselves from Old Portsmouth landmarks and into the sea.

Shocking footage shows one adult running across a platform on The Round Tower before jumping feet first into the water yesterday afternoon (August 17). Known as tombstoning, the act involves diving off of high places while sometimes flipping in the air.

Teenagers were also spotted throwing themselves off of various places along the Hot Walls. Police have stepped up patrols in Old Portsmouth and along Southsea seafront, under Operation Nautical, in part to clamp down on these dangerous practices.

Police and crime commissioner Donna Jones told The News: “Tombstoning is dangerous, irresponsible and simply not worth risking your life for. Over the last four years I've invested in youth diversion programmes specifically in Old Portsmouth and along the seafront to protect young people and help improve the lives of residents.

“Do parents and carers know where their children are and what they're getting up to during the school holidays? They need to be having serious conversations with them. Keeping people safe takes more than just the police alone."

Teenagers were seen cheering adults who were hurling themselves into the sea. Crowds on the beach watched on at the continued displays of risk-taking. The News understands that one man who jumped off The Round Tower itself after climbing over the rail injured their neck in the dive.

Boys were seen shouting at officers travelling in the vicinity on a rigid inflatable boat (RIB), with one of them exclaiming: “Are you the fun police?!” Officers reconvened on a larger craft before heading to the beach.

Various other dangerous acts have been reported to the police. Youngsters have been spotted swimming across the Camber where Wightlink ships sail in a craze dubbed “chicken with a ferry”.

Chief Inspector Sam Warne said large crowds have been commonplace in Old Portsmouth and Southsea this summer due to the heatwave temperatures. he added that high visibility patrols will continue, and various actions including dispersal orders and community resolutions, will be considered.

A total of 17 people have been asked to leave designated areas between June 20 and 22 under the previous order, where failing to comply can result in an arrest. “We work jointly with our partner agencies, including Portsmouth City Council and the RNLI, as well as transport providers such as Wightlink, to tackle criminal activity and dangerous behaviour across our waterfront areas,” Chief Insp Warne said.

“Partner agencies offer guidance on water safety but it is incredibly important that parents are talking to their children around behaviour in these areas. We are continually receiving reports concerning young people entering the water around The Camber area and diving into the water from Wightlink property. I would remind people to stay away from restricted areas and ferry infrastructure and think about how your behaviour affects other people enjoying the seafront.”

The RNLI has issued a warning to those thinking of tombstoning in an effort to make them think twice before committing such stunts. Sydney Horsted, Lead Lifeguard for West Sussex, said: “We would strongly advise against any kind of tombstoning, including jumping from South Parade Pier. There are various hazards involved and this is an incredibly high-risk activity.

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“The water depth changes with the tide – even if it looks deep enough, it may well be too shallow. There is also the risk of submerged objects under the water that you can’t see until it’s too late. In Southsea in particular, we have very strong lateral currents that can quickly sweep swimmers underneath the pier. The pier itself is also a very old structure, formed of sharp metal poles and wooden pylons that can cause cuts quite easily. These may also be submerged under the water.

“Even in the summer the water is cool and jumping into the sea on a hot sunny day can cause cold water shock, causing someone to panic when they enter the water suddenly. In this situation you should FLOAT on your back until you are calm, stretching out your arms and legs, tilting your head back and calming your breathing – you can then shout for help.”

When asked about the activity on The Round Tower and Hot Walls, a spokesperson said tombstoning from there is a “seriously dangerous activity” due to rocks beneath the surface, strong currents, and changing tides. They added that boats, jet skies, and other watercraft can also cause problems.

“The Round Tower has only one way back to shore over rocks, meaning people can easily find themselves stranded or unable to get back to safety. We urge people to stop and think before jumping. A single jump can quickly turn into a life-threatening situation. If you see anyone in difficulty in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard..”

Portsmouth City Council have been approached for comment.