A JET skier was considered lucky to be alive after crashing into a harbour wall on the River Tyne.
But Jonathan Carr paid a double price for his daredevil antics as, apart from his injuries, he was prosecuted under a Port of Tyne bye-law to ensure river safety.
He was said to have navigated his jet-ski in a dangerous manner at excessive speeds on the wrong side of the river.
South Tyneside magistrates were told he has no formal jet ski training, and was wearing neither a helmet or lifejacket when spotted, minutes before crashing into a wall, sustaining severe injuries.
Carr, of Hyperion Avenue, South Shields, admitted dangerous navigation on the river and was fined £70, with £100 costs and a £15 victim surcharge. The prosecution is the first under Operation Marlin, launched jointly by the Port of Tyne Authority and Northumbria Police to crack down on dangerous and anti-social behaviour on the river, in April.
Port of Tyne harbour master Mike Nicholson said: "Mr Carr sustained very serious injuries and is lucky to be alive.
"Anyone who wants to use the river for leisure purposes should ensure they know and understand the rules, including undertaking training for their own safety and that of other river users."
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