Calls for action as holidaymaker's visit to Gourock almost ends in tragedy

Yahoo

3 days ago

A SHOCKED Gourock councillor has called for action after a holidaymaker's visit to the town almost turned into tragedy.
The Tele reported last week that a tourist Ben Walsh was left dangling head first when when a seafront railing collapsed while he stopped for a holiday 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.
(Image: contributed)
Now Councillor Ian Hellyer has vowed that the council will look again at the area to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.
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The family previously spoke of their hope that sharing their story with the Tele would prevent something similar happening again.
(Image: George Munro)
Councillor Hellyer said: "I've made contact with the council officers and have been given reassurance that the area at the railings have been made safe.
"The council will look at this particular part of the seafront and ensure that no such incident will happen again.
"They are fully engaged in a programme to ensure that the seafront railings in Gourock are maintained to ensure safety to the public at all times.
"As a local councillor I will maintain a liaison with the council and ensure the safety of the public at all times."
(Image: George Munro)
He told the Tele that he will continue to monitor the seafront after the alarming incident.
Stunned Ben Walsh, 40, was strolling along Ashton Road when he stopped with his partner Laura Taylor for a scenic photograph.
But as the the couple were leaning against the barrier close to Gourock Outdoor Pool it gave way.
Ben fell backwards, managing to save himself with his foot but was left dangling headfirst above a 15 foot drop.
Ben, from Ratford in Nottinghamshire, was visiting Gourock with Laura, 38, and his parents Ian, 66, and Rachel, 60, on a motorbike tour of Scotland.
Ben leaving Gourock with partner Laura, his dad Ian, left and mum Rachel (Image: contributed) Ian, 66, said: "We are all still in state of shock.
"What is most important to us is that it never happens again. Hopefully speaking out will make the council investigate thoroughly and remedy this."
(Image: contributed)
Councillor Hellyer, elected last year, says that he was saddened that visitors to the town had that experience - but called on people to be careful now that there are barricades up.
He added: "Gourock provides magnificent views on the seafront walkways and whilst the public are out enjoying the scenery I would ask, as always, that they take extra care especially if they see that restructuring work is taking place."
In our report Inverclyde Council told the Tele that they had immediately carried out inspections in the area and cordoned off the affected section of railing.