I posed for a romantic snap with my girlfriend - seconds later I was dangling head-first above a 15-foot drop and nearly died
Ben Walsh, 40, from Retford in Nottinghamshire, and girlfriend Laura Taylor, 38, were strolling along the promenade in Gourock in Renfrew, near Glasgow when they stopped for a scenic snap.
But as the picture was being taken, the railing the couple were leaning against gave way - leaving Ben dangling head-first above a 15-foot drop.
Ben had to be pulled back to safety by his ankles by his terrified parents Ian, 66, and Rachel, 60, and luckily passersby ran to his aid.
The couple took a photo afterwards showing the broken banister by the Scottish seaside.
Ben has now recalled the 'nightmare' experience, adding that everyone present felt 'traumatised' by it.
He said: 'Laura went forwards and I went backwards. I fell towards the edge but somehow managed to save myself by wrapping my leg round the pole.
'My mum, dad and Laura were screaming for help and pulled me to safety with the help of two passers by running to help.
'They all somehow managed to pull me by the ankle to safety.
'One lady ran down to the bottom to try to do something if I fell. The adrenalin just kicked in and I somehow survived.
'I can't thank the couple enough for running over and helping save my life.
'But I could easily have died. I couldn't sleep that night from going over it all in my head.
'It was like a nightmare. We were all absolutely traumatised by it.'
Ben, Laura, and his parents Ian, and Rachel, were visiting Gourock on a motorbike tour of Scotland.
They'd stopped off in Gourock to take in some sights before catching the ferry to Argyll.
The horror fall was captured on Laura's phone as it happened.
Ben added: 'It had been such a lovely evening. We had travelled up from Lumley Castle in Durham that day. We are travelling around Scotland in our motorbikes.
'We were staying in a wee holiday let next to Cleats Bar. We had a fantastic meal at Café Continental and went for a walk along the waterfront.
'It was a beautiful night, and we stopped so Laura and I could get a photograph taken. We leaned back and then it all happened.'
Ben, a training manager with the National Grid, says he is now seriously concerned about the safety of all the barriers in the area and called for an investigation.
He said: 'What concerns me the most is this railing appeared to have been welded recently. So a repair must have been carried out.
'It could have easily been an elderly person or a child. They might not have been so lucky.
'It is extremely lucky I managed to hold on and survived.
'We didn't know what to do after it happened. We brought the rail back up, and we managed to find a traffic cone before we reported it.
'I work with health and safety every single day. This needs to be investigated.'
Inverclyde Council immediately took action to cordon off the section of fence that gave way.
A spokesperson said: 'We are aware of the incident and understand the concerns that have been raised.
'A programme of inspections and repairs of seafront railings is currently being carried out in the surrounding area, and more widely across Gourock, as part of our ongoing asset management responsibilities and commitment to public safety.
'A review is currently under way to determine the cause of the issue at this location and to ensure that any necessary follow-up actions are taken.'
Ben concluded: 'I applaud the councils quick reaction as they barriered the area off first thing the following morning.
'I saw similarly rotten, broken railings in Oban after I left Gourock. I have also read of similar things happening across the country, for example Devon.
'All I ask is that people are careful when they are posing for photographs this summer in similar locations.
'You wouldn't expect an item which is there for your safety to be unsafe, but this proves it can happen.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Independent
2 hours ago
- The Independent
Crews in Scotland ‘working tirelessly' to rectify storm damage to railway lines
Teams are 'working tirelessly' to rectify the damage to railway infrastructure brought by Storm Floris, Network Rail said. Ross Moran, rail director for Network Rail in Scotland, said storms such as Floris can have 'devastating' effects on train lines. On Tuesday, he told the PA news agency: 'The storm has caused really unprecedented challenges and damage to the railway infrastructure. 'The storm hit Scotland at around 11am on Monday. It was sustained and frequent until about 7.30pm. 'It has caused damage to overhead lines, there's been more than 100 trees, as well as sheds and trampolines, blown on to the railway infrastructure.' Mr Moran said that storms such as Floris are unusual during the summer and more common in the winter months. He added: 'What that means is we've got trees in full bloom, and therefore they're heavier and when you get wind speeds of over 100mph, the impact can be devastating to the railway infrastructure.' Mr Moran said communities in Inverness, Aberdeen and the far north of Scotland have experienced the worst disruption to railway lines, but added that clean-up crews and engineers are making 'good progress', and thanked passengers for their patience while they seek to fix any damage to the lines. He said: 'We are making good progress. At the moment there are still power issues, there are significant issues, but our engineers and track teams are out there working tirelessly, and we expect that we'll continue to make good progress, and we will be able to update passengers as the day progresses.' Mr Moran added: 'We are so grateful to the patience of passengers while we've worked through this difficult period, but do take our assurances that we're doing everything we can to get the lines back over and again as soon as possible.' Engineers are working to restore power to a total of around 22,000 properties in the north and north-east of Scotland. Work is also under way to clear trees from several railway lines which were blocked by the storm. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) said it had restored power to 60,000 properties since the onset of the high winds. SSEN's director of customer operations for the north of Scotland, Andy Smith, said: 'Storm Floris has been unusually powerful, especially for a storm at this time of year. 'It's brought down many trees that have endured several previous storms, and it's caused some network damage. 'Today, we've been able to inspect the network from the air and from the ground, and we now have a complete picture of the extent of the damage. 'There's a considerable ongoing task to restore all customers' supplies, but we have an 800-strong team whose priority is to make repairs as safely and quickly as they can, keep customers updated, and support those awaiting reconnection. 'I'd like to thank our customers for their understanding and patience while we go about this massive task; we're doing our best to give people realistic, informed estimates of when we'll get their power back on. 'I'm also grateful to the teams from our contract partners and other network operators for supporting our effort.' The company, which is the network operator for northern Scotland, said it had organised meal provision in some of the affected communities. ScotRail said some routes in the north are still facing disruption. On Monday night, the Scottish Government's resilience room held an emergency meeting to help decide an appropriate response to the storm, which has also led to delays in exam results being delivered to pupils in some island communities. Ministers including Angela Constance were joined by representatives from the Met Office, Police Scotland, Transport Scotland, Sepa and transport and utilities companies. Trunk road companies are continuing to remove fallen trees and debris from roads. With winds of up to 90mph in some parts of the country, a significant clear-up job will be required to inspect lines and carry out repair work before it is safe to restore a full service. More wet and windy weather is forecast for late on Wednesday and Thursday, but no Met Office weather warnings are in place for Tuesday. ScotRail is urging customers to check their journey via the app, website or JourneyCheck before they travel. Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Mike Silverstone said: 'While the system later this week won't carry as many impacts as Storm Floris, a further period of unseasonable wet and windy weather is on the way late on Wednesday and into Thursday for those in north-western parts of the UK. 'An area of low pressure from the west will bring some strong winds, especially for those in western parts of Scotland. 'Gusts over 50mph are possible for a time. Some heavy rain will also accompany the strong winds, with up to 30mm possible.'
Telegraph
4 hours ago
- Telegraph
Discover a cruise experience that takes luxury at sea to new heights
As warming sunshine tumbles through the sky's wispy cloud cover, I lean my elbows against the edge of a Jacuzzi whirlpool on Queen Anne's Grills Terrace. The water is wonderfully warm, pairing brilliantly with the crisp glass of champagne that I sip as I look across at the dramatic Scottish coastline and sparkling sea. I could get used to this. The impressively big (and impossibly luxurious) ship is my home-away-from-home for the next week as she leisurely makes her way around the British Isles. Not only am I lucky enough to be on board, but I also find myself travelling in luxuriant style in one of Cunard's famed Queens Grill suites. After boarding earlier this morning – where a fellow passenger embodied the welcoming atmosphere when he called out 'welcome aboard Queen Anne!' – I was whisked up to my suite where my dedicated butler, Ben, greeted me. 'I'm here to make your stay perfect,' he told me as he showed me around. And I believe him. Home sweet home Seeing a Cunard Queens Grill suite for the first time is an unforgettable experience. It was hard to know where to look first – at the stylish blue and pastel accented decor, the sumptuously soft striped carpet or the marbled counter tops of the spacious bathroom? Or perhaps the king-size bed, or the huge balcony awaiting through double doors? The welcome chocolates and champagne on ice were certainly hard to miss – as was the mini bar area, where Ben explained I could order two complimentary bottles of my choice to enjoy during my stay. I went for Cunard's rosé label and the special Queen Anne edition gin, perfect for pre-dinner G&Ts on my balcony. Despite seriously overpacking, the huge double wardrobes allow ample room to unpack (something that the Queens Grill butlers can also help with). I opt for a delicious lunch in the comfort of my own suite, which sees Ben lay a beautiful spread of maple caramelised brussel sprouts and grilled seabream atop a white tablecloth and silverware, before I make my way up to the exclusive Grills Terrace to soak up the view from the whirlpool. It seemed only right to accompany the moment with a glass of bubbly. Speciality dining That evening, as I sip a G&T on my balcony surrounded by a sparkling sea, a soft knock at the door announces Ben delivering my nightly pre-dinner canapes – moreish goat cheese and carmelised onion tartlets today – alongside some freshly sliced lemon slices. 'I thought you might enjoy them with your gin,' he says as he places the lemon down. It's small, thoughtful details like this that epitomise Cunard's White Star Service. I make my way up to the luxurious Queens Grill Restaurant, where Ilven, the maitre d', greets me warmly. I'm shown to the table that will be reserved for me the whole trip as a Queens Grill guest. The restaurant is a sight in itself: beautifully detailed decor with soft hues of blue and pastel, twinkling chandeliers and pristine table settings. The floor-to-ceiling windows of the restaurant give it an unparalleled view of the glistening waves. Fellow Queens Grill guests, Bob and Glenys Latham, are equally enchanted. They always pick Cunard, they tell me, and have even brought a slice of the Cunard experience back home with them: 'We have a little aperitif and canapes at home in the evenings now,' Glenys says. 'It's just a lovely tradition.' As I discover, the Queens Grill menu changes daily, but never fails to impress. My first meal starts with salmon gravadlax before I tuck into Lyburn Old Winchester gnocchi with a sage and walnut crumb. Dining while looking out onto the great horizons as Queen Anne steadily cuts through the water is an experience I'll never forget. Relax in luxury I wake to the view of waves rolling gently past my window before heading up to the Queens Grill restaurant for a decadent breakfast. Made-to-order omelettes, full English, pastries, eggs royale, freshly cooked pancakes – whatever you can think of, they've got it. It's the perfect start to set me up for the ultimate day of relaxation at Queen Anne's Mareel Spa, beginning with a Fire and Ice manicure (I'd run out of time to get my nails done before the voyage but thankfully the wonderful spa manager slots me in straight away). It's certainly an upgrade from my typical nail salon: after my colour is applied, Marie gives me an exfoliating hand and arm massage before applying a cooling gel and wrapping them in hot towels. Then I'm left to admire the best manicure I've ever had. Next, a massage. My therapist takes time to understand any specific aches, pains or problems I have and it really shows – the treatment feels like it was made for me. I can feel tension melting away from each muscle group as I sink into a daze of relaxed bliss. Afterwards, I glide into the thermal spa to let the full effects of the massage settle. Lying on one of the heated stone loungers set around the Jacuzzi pool, I doze into a peaceful state of tranquility. It's a steady state of bliss that continues back in the luxurious privacy of the Queens Grill suite, where dinner is served, extending the feeling of relaxation deep into the evening aboard Queen Anne. Spoilt for choice Sea days on Queen Anne mean a world of possibilities: sipping morning coffee overlooking the Irish mountains and brilliant blue sea; breakfast on my private balcony; a spot of reading by the Pavilion pool; a sauna that gets my skin glowing; and almost certainly an indulgent afternoon tea in the Princess Grill Restaurant. But there are also port days, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a destination's culture before returning to their luxurious sanctuary back on board Queen Anne. I join a brilliant river cruise along Dublin's River Liffey, which gives me insight into the city's history, culture and heart. Back on board, I return to an immaculate suite (thanks, Ben). I have just enough time to savour the canapes he's delivered before heading out for dinner at the speciality Indian restaurant, Aranya. It's busy, and with the excitement of Dublin I didn't book ahead, but with the help of the concierge service, I'm welcomed warmly and led to a table. Soon, I'm tucking into a delicious starter of soft shell crab and popadoms, followed by an incredible vegetable biryani plus daal and naan for the table. After dinner, I head to the Queens Room to watch Irish musician Tara Howley. She deftly swaps between fiddle, whistle, uilleann pipes and vocals in a showstopping celebration of Irish music that brings the twinkling lights of Dublin fading on the horizon right back into the room. Unparalleled luxury From my first moment on board, it was clear that this voyage would be an oceanic experience unlike any other. Waking to a new view every day, surrounded by breathtaking vistas and sparkling seas is, in itself, an incredible trip. But when you add to that Cunard's impeccable White Star Service, delicious dining options that take you around the world, a world-class spa and salon, and your own personal butler, the trip reaches new – and unbeatable – heights. My last morning on board Queen Anne sees us gliding round the tip of Land's End. I'm treated to breathtaking views of the Cornish coastline – indelibly intertwined with maritime history and tradition – and can make out the thin line of Wolf Rock Lighthouse as well as the white ship masts marking Penzance's harbour. After breakfast – a freshly made omelette, buttermilk pancakes and berry compote – I relax on the Grills Terrace, soaking up the sun, sea air and tranquil luxury that Cunard delivers in abundance. I've stood on the Cornish shores looking out at the boundless sea and silhouetted ships many times; I never imagined I would be lounging on Queen Anne's exclusive terrace, a mimosa in hand, gazing back from the other side.
Daily Record
5 hours ago
- Daily Record
Stirling hotel manager voices support for tourist tax if funds are used wisely
Stirling Council is currently seeking feedback on the draft Visitor Levy scheme for the area, after it launched a public consultation on the issue last month. The manager of one of Stirling's most popular hotels has suggested that the city's proposed ' tourist tax ' on overnight stays could be beneficial, provided the funds raised are used appropriately. Stirling Council is currently seeking public opinion on the draft Visitor Levy scheme for the area, following a public consultation launched last month. Under new powers granted by the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024, the draft scheme proposes a five per cent levy on overnight stays across all forms of paid visitor accommodation within the Stirling Council area. The scheme would include several exemptions specific to Stirling, including residents of Stirling Council, those receiving carers' allowance and visitors staying more than seven nights (through reimbursement), as well as a site exemption scheme for charitable and educational organisations, where the trip's primary purpose is charitable or educational. Barry Makin, the general manager of Sir Andy Murray's Cromlix Hotel, in Kinbuck, believes the move could be positive – provided the money is "well spent" and used locally. Speaking to the Stirling Observer, Mr Makin said: "I think the theory behind the levy is good in principle, if the money is spent well locally to improve things for visitors and also for local people." He further commented: "I've seen how it can work successfully in other European countries. In my opinion it's essential that the levy charge is clear to bookers at the point of booking and not just on the final bill so it's clear that this isn't a cost added by the hotel, but is something all travellers to Stirling would encounter." Local residents and other interested parties are invited to share their thoughts on the draft scheme via an online survey, with paper versions also available in Stirling Council libraries, until October 12. Businesses, accommodation providers, locals and tourists alike are also encouraged to provide feedback on the proposals at drop-in sessions scheduled across Stirling in September. The sessions include: Stirling's Albert Halls on September 9, from 11am-6pm; The John McLintock Hall, Balfron, on September 11, from 10am–6pm; Drymen Village hall on September 17, from 10am-6pm; Killin's McLaren Hall on September 23, from 10am-6pm; and Callander Youth Project Trust on September 29, from 10am-6pm. Last month, Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Gerry McGarvey, urged everyone, from accommodation providers to residents and visitors, to provide feedback on the scheme to ensure it reflects the needs of all of Stirling. If approved, the 'tourist tax' would come into effect from June 1, 2027, and would apply to bookings made on or after January 1, 2027. In May, we reported that a hospitality trade body had warned that the proposed 'tourist tax' could potentially damage tourism in the region. Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UK Hospitality Scotland, said: "Hospitality and tourism is so important to Stirling, as a major employer and driver of the local economy. "That economic and social contribution to our communities must be protected and we fundamentally believe that introducing a visitor levy could harm tourism in Stirling. "That's why Stirling Council should carry out a detailed impact assessment to understand the potential impact on visitors, tourism and the economy, before it embarks further on potentially introducing a levy." That came after the Association of Scotland's Self-Caterers (ASSC) said last December that the introduction of a visitor levy scheme on tourists in Stirling would mean that small businesses could become "de-facto unpaid tax collectors". Fiona Campbell, ASSC chief executive, said the implementation of the tax must "be done right". In April, a campaign group against the proposals warned the move could see the city's hospitality sector left with high levels of cancellations. The Back British Holidays campaign has issued a warning that up to 21% of potential holidaymakers might cancel their trips due to the extra tariff. They also stated that another 21% would cut back on their spending during their holiday. The council previously estimated that a five per cent levy could generate as much as £7.5million.
