A driver's decision to ignore clear warning signs led to a dramatic scene in Worcester this week, as a black Audi A4 was discovered suspended precariously over the River Severn.
Ignored Warnings Lead to Perilous Position
The incident occurred near the Worcester Rowing Club on Monday afternoon, between roughly 12pm and 1pm. The driver, who was not a member of the club, had parked the vehicle too close to the river's edge. In an unfortunate turn of events, the car's handbrake is thought to have failed, causing it to roll forward.
The result was a startling image: the £40,000 vehicle's front wheels were left dangling over the embankment, with its rear wheels lifted off the ground. Adding a layer of irony to the situation, the car came to rest perfectly framed next to a bright red triangle sign warning drivers of the exact danger of vehicles toppling into the river.
Baffled Bystander Captures the Scene
Keith Hiley, 67, came across the stranded motor and expressed his bewilderment. "I think there was a touch of embarrassment there," he said. "You know, you’re in the spotlight, mate, because you’ve done something really, really ridiculous. It’s not the sort of thing you see every day."
Mr Hiley explained his understanding was that the driver had parked and walked into town, unaware of the impending mishap. "My understanding is that he parked the car and walked into town but while he was away the handbrake failed and it rolled towards the edge," he stated.
Seizing the moment, Hiley took a photograph, noting the perfect alignment with the warning sign. "He clearly hadn’t looked at it," Hiley remarked, "but I’m sure he did when he came back."
Swift Response Prevents a Costly Dip
Following the discovery, members of the Worcester Rowing Club contacted the police, who promptly organised for the luxury car to be towed to safety. The swift action prevented the vehicle from taking a costly plunge into the River Severn.
This incident serves as a stark reminder to all motorists to heed warning signs and ensure their vehicles are securely parked, especially on uneven or sloping ground. It echoes other recent UK motoring misfortunes, such as the event in Polzeath, Cornwall, in August where beachgoers returned to find their cars partially submerged by the rising tide.
