1400 people assisted off sandbanks over the weekend by the RNLI & Coastguard

Last weekend's brilliant weather saw a huge influx of people needing assistance along the beaches in Rhyl and Prestatyn. Over 1400 people needed to be assisted off sand banks as the flooding tide cut them off. Rhyl RNLI Lifeguards along with the volunteers from Rhyl RNLI Lifeboat crew and Rhyl Coastguard Rescue Team, worked together to warn beach users and guide them back across from the sandbanks that had been cut off from the flooding tide.

The weekend also saw action for the RNLI Lifeguards rescuing several people from the water and bringing them to shore at Rhyl and Prestatyn beaches.

Matt Jessop, RNLI Denbighshire Lifeguards Supervisor said: 'Last weekend was an exceptionally busy period for us on the beaches. Working with our colleagues from the lifeboat crew and HM Coastguard we assisted a huge number of people who were in danger of being cut off by the tide. If you are heading to the beach this summer, please go to a lifeguarded beach, check the tide times by asking one of our lifeguards on the beach and follow their advice to enjoy the beach safely.

Martin Jones, Rhyl RNLI Lifeboat Coxswain said: 'We have some stunning beaches along our coastline, and we want everyone to enjoy them safely. The tidal range in this area is one of the largest in the UK and the tide can cut you off from land in minutes. Next weekend the tides are larger, and high water is during the middle of the day. If you are heading to the beach, please be aware of this. If you get in to trouble or see anyone in trouble dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.