Brighton: RNLI condemn 'tombstoning' over Bank Holiday

The teens were spotted jumping off the Doughnut Groyne in Brighton on Sunday as temperatures soared to 22C.

Lifeguards were watching in disbelief as they plunged into the shallow sea, just metres deep at the time.

They leapt off the top of the groyne (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Brighton RNLI operations manager Roger Cohen said the water may be shallower than people think and there may be hidden dangers on the seabed.

He said: "Jumping from piers and groynes, known as tombstoning, can be incredibly dangerous at any state of the tide for a number of reasons such as submerged rocks and strong currents.

"We realise that it’s tempting to jump from height into the water, especially with such great weather but submerged items may not be visible and could cause serious injury if you hit them.

"The shock of cold water may also make it difficult to swim and in some places strong currents might sweep you away."

They climb onto the wall of the groyne before jumping (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

The groyne is a frequent spot for sunseekers looking for a way to cool off in the hot weather.

Last summer, the lifeboat was called to two people who found themselves in trouble after jumping off the west side of the Palace Pier.

In the same summer, one man was captured jumping off the Afloat sculpture on the end of the groyne in a heart-stopping moment.

Their friends watched on as they performed the stunt (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Brighton and Hove City Council's chairman of community safety councillor Leslie Pumm said: "It might seem like fun, jumping from the beach groynes or from the pier into the sea. But it is actually really dangerous.

"We want children and teenagers to think twice before jumping – and to know that in the past people have been very seriously injured doing this, some permanently.

"Don’t jump – you could be putting your life in danger or encouraging others, who may not be good swimmers and don’t understand the risks involved.

"We hope parents will discourage their children from doing this. There are lots of places where it is safe to swim and play."

The RNLI, while it denounces the diving, has issued advice to people who plan on jumping into the sea despite its warning.

A spokeswoman for the charity said people should check for hazards in the water before taking the plunge, and to make sure they have a way out of the sea.