EVERYONE loves a day at the seaside, but it is not without its dangers.

Earlier this year three members of a Leeds family drowned after being swept out to sea at Scarborough.

The inquest into that tragedy heard that the nearest life buoy was missing, presumably removed by vandals. This is a serious problem on York's rivers, too.

Until we can get across the message that these buoys are vital for saving lives, and not a toy provided to alleviate a moment's boredom, we must expect more nightmares like that which unfurled on the North Bay.

Updated: 10:22 Tuesday, August 23, 2005