THINK where you park is the message from HM Coastguard as visitors flock to coastal areas across the Tivyside area,

“Help us to help you by avoiding parking in coastal areas which restrict crucial access for emergency service vehicles, including our very own Coastguard Rescue Teams,” said a Coastguard spokesperson.

“A number of our teams have reported being faced with difficulty accessing beaches and Coastguard Rescue stations due to members of the public parking in restricted spaces, especially along narrow rural roads and footpaths which often lead to the beach.

“An incident at the coast and at sea can happen at any time and at any location but ourselves and emergency service partners could be prevented from responding quickly and ultimately saving lives if we are unable to travel freely and safely.

“We are urging you to take extra care and be responsible for your actions by considering where you park when you visit the coast.”

And that plea has been reinforced by Moylegrove Coastguard team, which posted on its Facebook page: “We kindly ask everyone to refrain from parking in front of the Coastguard Station. The marked area is kept clear to enable unrestricted access to equipment during emergency calls.”