Amazon Van Rescued from Britain's 'Most Dangerous' Mudflat Path in Essex
An Amazon delivery van was rescued after becoming stranded on one of Britain's most hazardous coastal paths, the Broomway, in the Thames estuary near Foulness, Essex. The incident occurred when the driver, following GPS directions, ventured onto the mudflats in an attempt to reach Foulness Island, a military-used area.
Coastguard Response to the Stranded Vehicle
HM Coastguard was alerted at 11:30 am on February 15th to reports of the van driven onto the Broomway, a 600-year-old pathway across the flats that has earned the grim nickname 'the Doomway' due to its deadly history. Upon arrival, coastguards discovered the driver had already fled to safety, and the vehicle was later recovered by Amazon by 3:30 pm on Sunday.
The Southend Coastguard rescue team emphasized that the Broomway route is extremely dangerous and not suitable for vehicles. It should only be traversed on foot with a knowledgeable guide, as it is located on Ministry of Defence property, accessible only when firing ranges are inactive and barriers are open. The correct access to Foulness Island is via the left barrier through the QinetiQ security office.
Historical Dangers of the Broomway
The Broomway can only be crossed during low tide, and the tide rises rapidly, posing significant risks. Dozens of people have died attempting to follow this path over the centuries, with many buried in Foulness churchyard. Its perilous reputation led Edwardian newspapers to dub it 'the Doomway', highlighting the ongoing hazards.
Coastguard officials confirmed that their primary concerns were the safety of the occupants and potential pollution. After verifying that the driver and a passenger, who were in the van when it drove onto the mudflats on Saturday evening, were safe and that the vehicle would be removed, officers were stood down.
This incident underscores the importance of heeding local warnings and using proper routes, especially in areas with historical dangers like the Broomway.
