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Bay Walk Tradition Threatened by Vandalism
25 Aug
Summary
- Vandals target vital safety equipment, jeopardizing a 500-year-old tradition.
- Tractors used for rescue are being sabotaged, putting walkers at risk.
- Organizers state walks cannot continue without essential safety vehicles.

A nearly 500-year-old tradition in Lancashire, the historical cross-bay walks, faces an uncertain future. Organizers report that vandals have been targeting vital safety equipment necessary for these events. The Morecambe Bay walks, renowned for attracting up to 500 participants, traverse a dangerous area notorious for quicksand, rapidly rising tides, and deep channels.
To ensure walker safety, guides utilize tractors as mobile rescue and support vehicles. However, these critical resources have become targets. In a recent severe incident, attackers started one of the tractors, allowing it to run until the engine seized. Jo Hales, secretary of the Guide over Sands Trust, stated that the walks are impossible to conduct without the tractors, which serve as an indispensable safety net for everyone involved.