Distress flare launched illegally off Yorkshire coast as part of 'clap for the NHS' gesture

The Coastguard has criticised the illegal use of distress flares on Thursday night when one was let off as part of the 8pm 'clap for the NHS'.

By Grace Newton

Published 3rd Apr 2020, 10:59 BST

Updated 3rd Apr 2020, 11:00 BST

Bridlington Coastguard were sent to Flamborough after reports a red distress flare had been seen in the area.

They later established it had been let off by a member of the public taking part in the minute's applause for NHS and key workers.

Distress flares can only legally be used in an emergency situation to attract the attention of rescuers.

A statement from Bridlington Coastguard Rescue Team read:"The team were tasked by Humber Coastguard alongside Coastguard rescue helicopter 912 to attend reports of a red distress flare which had been sighted in the Flamborough area.

"A thorough search of the area was carried out when news came to our operations centre that a flare had been set off by a member of the public in Flamborough as part of the NHS 8pm celebrations.

"Whilst we wholeheartedly support our colleagues in the NHS, members of the public are advised that the misuse of distress flares is a serious criminal offence."