North East heatwave: Council issues warning for notorious Richmond Falls

An amber warning for extreme heat is currently in place for the North East today, with temperatures set to reach their peak tomorrow by mid-afternoon.

The weather forecaster has warned of adverse health effects and delays to travel due to the extreme temperatures.

However, it has also warned of an increased risk of water safety incidents, due to more people visiting coastal areas, lakes and rivers.

Spots such as Richmond Falls are a regular hot-spot during the hotter weather, however, the area has been the subject of anti-social behaviour in recent years.

What warnings are currently in place for Richmond Falls?

Richmondshire District Council has reminded visitors to the area that there is currently a Public Spaces Protection Order in place at the beauty spot.

A picture of the scenes at Richmondshire Falls this time last year

This restricts certain behaviours that have a negative impact on the area and local community.

The local authority said they had received reports recently of “concerning noisy groups, alcohol use and litter being left behind.”

Breaches of the Public Space Protection order could result in a fine for visitors.

This includes behaviour such as threatening or abusing people in the area, continuing to consume alcohol when required to stop, being under the influence of drugs, throwing objects that could cause damage and others.

During this time last year, on July 19, an incident saw a child hit by a glass bottle that had been thrown by men who were fighting.

The toddler was left with a cut foot, leaving the youngster very upset and distressed.

During the Covid-19 lockdown, the spot was the site of mass gatherings that saw drugs and litter left behind.

Mayor of Richmond Councillor Lorraine Hodgson said people in the town are "shocked" and "outraged" after hoards of people took over the area around Richmond Fall and the Batts drinking and using nitrous oxide capsules.