Police watchdog called in after woman falls to death from Marsden cliffs

Emergency services were called to Marsden in South Shields just after 3.30pm on Sunday after concerns were raised for a woman who was on the wrong side of the barriers next to the Marsden Grotto.

Police, fire and coastguard services attended and tried to speak to the woman, however, she fell from the cliffs and into the sea.

The woman was recovered from the water by Tynemouth RNLI’s crew, along with South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade (SSVLB).

She was taken to South Shields ferry landing, where an ambulance was waiting.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, she was pronounced dead.

The death has now been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPPCS).

It is the second time a death has been refereed to the watchdogs in a matter of months.

In August 17-year-old Chrielle Calder from Whiteleas, died after falling in the same location.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: “The incident has been referred to the IPCC as is the standard procedure when a death or serious injury occurs.”

Campaign group Cliff Angels South Shields is bidding to set up extra security on the cliff top.

The online appeal has attracted more than 3,600 members on Facebook.

It was launched by Kirk Wilson from South Shields after Chirelle’s death.

Mr Wilson said: “I’m saddened to hear about another death on our beautiful coastline.

“I hope the town can get behind the group so we can get the bus set up sooner rather than later so people feel like they have a place to go when they are in a dark place and no one to turn to

The father-of-two’s idea is to have a bus parked up along the coast which people will be able to visit if they are feeling upset or vulnerable so they can speak to volunteers.

Mr Wilson has met with officials from the council and the National Trust and is raising cash to make his plan a reality.