As beaches get busier RNLI Hoylake and UK Coastguard rescue two people and a dog

The relief hovercraft ‘John Russell’ and her volunteer crew launched and headed to the scene. RNLI New Brighton Lifeboat was also tasked. Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team officers had reached the casualties, but the sandbank was now surrounded by the incoming tide. The RNLI hovercraft arrived on scene and the two casualties and their dog were swiftly brought on board and transported safely ashore to the promenade wall.

The hovercraft then returned to the sandbank to bring the Coastguard officers ashore. New Brighton Lifeboat had remained on the scene to provide safety cover for the casualties and other emergency services.

With the incident safely concluded but the tide still flooding, the hovercraft returned to station while her crew kept an eye out on the busy beach to ensure no further members of the public were in danger of being cut off.

Hoylake RNLI hovercraft crew member Chris Williams said: ‘As we head into the Bank Holiday weekend and in light of changes to Government guidance in England, we’re expecting our beaches to be very busy. It’s important that anyone visiting the coast understands that the beach can be a dangerous place.’

‘At the moment there are no RNLI lifeguards patrolling. RNLI lifeboat crews and HM Coastguard are still on call ready to respond to emergencies, but the message is clear: be aware of dangers, for example by checking tide times, take responsibility for yourselves and your loved ones and remember that in an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

Since the easing of lockdown restrictions in England and with children still off school, many more people are choosing to visit the coast to exercise and take part in water-based activities. Last weekend alone UK Coastguard rescue teams reported being called out 194 times to assist people in danger across the country.

RNLI volunteers remain on call 24 hours a day ready to respond to such emergencies, often putting their own safety at risk particularly in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The RNLI is therefore urging people to make themselves aware of the local hazards when visiting the coast, respect the water and take sensible steps to ensure their own safety.

Notes to editors

• Hoylake lifeboat station has been operating since 1803. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/hoylake-lifeboat-station

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