River marshals add an extra layer of safety at key York waterway

Have you spotted York’s new river marshals yet?

They started patrolling a key stretch of the city’s main waterway this month.

Funded by the York BID (Business Improvement District), the river marshals are based on King’s Staith next to the River Ouse from noon to 8pm every Saturday.

Their role is to help ensure it remains a safe place to visit and relax.

The marshals are equipped with a throwline and river safety awareness to help assist people in the water.

They are also fully first aid trained.

As well as supporting the door staff at riverside venues, the marshals will liaise with members of the public.

And they will have communication with the volunteers who crew the York Rescue Boat.

Initial funding is available to operate the service through July, August and September, said Carl Alsop, Operations Manager at the York BID.

“It’s great to see so many people enjoying York’s wonderful riverside,” Carl said.

“But we all know that there have been regular serious incidents on this stretch of the Ouse.

“Our river marshals will provide an extra set of eyes and ears, will be vigilant to any dangers, and can quickly get a throw line to anyone who goes in the water.

“We hope they will also be seen as a friendly and reassuring presence, adding to the warm welcome people enjoy when they come into York city centre.”

The launch of the river marshals comes at the same time as the return of the taxi marshals.

They are on hand at the Duncombe Place taxi rank from 11pm to 3am every Friday and Saturday night, helping to manage the queues and reduce anti-social behaviour.

It is the fifth year that the taxi marshal service has been operated by the BID.