West Kirby RNLI launched to assist stranded walkers
West Kirby RNLI was tasked to launch at 12.44pm following a phone call made to HM Coastguard by a person cut off by tide to the south of Middle Eye.
The volunteer crew of West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat quickly assembled and launched to assist two casualties who had become cut off by the 8.6m tide whilst crossing the rocky outcrop between Middle Eye and Little Eye. One of the casualties had been able to call HM Coastguard to request assistance shortly after making the decision to reach higher ground as the tide was quickly surrounding them. The volunteer crew reached the casualties following their launch at Sandy Lane slipway and they made their way around Tanskey’s Rocks and then approached the casualties to the south of Middle Eye. The two casualties were stood on the highest outcrop of rock with the tide having just reached their feet. The volunteer crew were then able to manoeuvre the boat near to them so as to avoid the casualties from falling into the water due to the slippery and uneven nature of the rocky outcrop. The casualties were returned to shore and into the care of the awaiting local HM Coastguard team for a welfare check.
Andy Brown, West Kirby RNLI Deputy Launch Authority said: ‘The casualties absolutely made the correct decision as soon as they realised that they were in danger. Never hesitate to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if you or anyone is in danger near or on the water as we are happy to help. It is easy to become cut off by tide if you are not aware of how it flows into a specific area and we would encourage all visitors to the islands to look at the noticeboard by the ice-cream kiosk by the sailing school for further details. It is necessary to leave Hilbre Island three hours prior to high tide to ensure that you return to shore safely.’
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 142,700 lives.
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