Local police and Lake Rangers conducted patrols on Coniston Water over the weekend, issuing citations to jet skiers for allegedly traveling at excessive speeds. The South Lakes Neighbourhood Policing Team stopped three individuals following numerous public complaints about reckless riding that put other lake users at risk.
One jet ski, described as red, was stopped after repeated reports of it being operated at high speeds. Police took the details of the two individuals on board with the intent to prosecute. In a separate incident, another jet skier was cited for excessive speed. Authorities informed this individual that further incidents of anti-social riding could lead to prosecution.
South Lakes Police stated they would continue collaborating with Lake Rangers to ensure public safety and address inconsiderate riding on the lakes.
Coniston Water holds historical significance as the site where Donald Campbell set four world water speed records. His iconic hydroplane, the Bluebird K7, returned to the lake earlier this year for the first time in nearly six decades following the fatal crash that claimed his life in January 1967. Campbell was attempting to break the 300 mph barrier when the Bluebird K7 disintegrated, killing him at age 45. This year also marks the 70th anniversary of Campbell's first world water speed record, set on July 23, 1955, at 225.63 mph.
The Bluebird K7, which had rested at the bottom of Coniston Water for 40 years, was raised in 2001 and subsequently underwent extensive restoration.