People are being warned not to take risks at the coast after "idiots" were spotted dodging waves in North Tyneside.
These pictures were taken on Tuesday morning at Cullercoats Bay, at a time when winds were high and the sea was rough.
Huge waves were crashing against the pier walls yet two people were seen "flirting with death".
Their actions have been condemned by rescue services as well as members of the public, who branded them "idiots" and "reckless".
Adrian Don, spokesperson for Tynemouth RNLI, said: "This is just plainly stupid and extremely dangerous. It's a severe threat to life or serious injury.
"If they were knocked off, they could be knocked unconscious as well. And there would also be risks for everyone who would go to rescue them.
"The sea is not a playground. They think this is great fun but the risks are horrendous.
"Our advice would be for people not to take risks like this and stay safe along the coast."
Lifesaving crews have continued to give up their time to save lives at sea during the pandemic.
The RNLI says that every time a lifeboat crew is called to an incident, it puts additional pressure on volunteers and other frontline emergency services. In addition to this, it also potentially exposes them to Covid-19.
Earlier this year, the charity and HM Coastguard launched a national winter coastal safety campaign to highlight the dangers of stormy seas, changing tides and cliffs.
Nick Ayers, RNLI regional water safety lead, said: "We would urge anyone able to access coastal areas to please understand the risks, be as safe as possible and not put unnecessary strain on front line services.
"No one ever heads to the coast with the expectation of needing to be rescued, yet rescues are occurring every day.
"In a normal year, around 150 people lose their lives at the coast and we know that more than half of those never intended to be in the water.
"So, whether you are walking, running or cycling at the coast, or doing some activity on or in the water, please be extra responsible and avoid taking unnecessary risks."
