West Kirby RNLI rescues two people and three dogs stuck in mud

West Kirby RNLI was paged at 1.15pm on Tuesday 1 April, to assist two individuals and three dogs stuck in the mud flats between Dee Sailing Club and Sally’s Cottage during high tide.

The volunteer crew launched within ten minutes and swiftly located the pair, one of whom had been stuck up to their thighs in the mud. With the high tide at its peak, the pair made their way to higher ground on some nearby rocks, but were unable to get back to safety.

The casualties and dogs were brought on board the D class lifeboat, Leonard Pownall, and taken safely ashore. They were met by North West Ambulance Service, including the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), Merseyside Fire and Rescue, as well as Wirral and Flint Coastguard Rescue Teams, who were also on scene.

Hoylake RNLI hovercraft, Hurley Spirit, was also tasked for immediate launch at 1.17pm, but whilst en route to the scene, was stood down by HM Coastguard when it was confirmed that the casualties had been recovered.

The pair were handed over to the care of Coastguard rescue officers and paramedics at the Dee Sailing Club slipway, who assessed them to check if they needed medical attention. Although they were understandably shaken, no urgent medical treatment was required.

The lifeboat was therefore stood down and taken back to the station, where it was thoroughly cleaned, refuelled, and ready for service by 3.20pm.

Richard Diamond, West Kirby Lifeboat Operations Manager, said:

‘These individuals did exactly the right thing in dialling 999 and asking for the Coastguard as soon as they felt they were in danger.

‘It would understandably have been a very frightening experience, particularly as the high spring tide was quickly approaching and surrounding them and the mud flats aren’t always easy to spot.

‘Always carry a means of communication and check the tide times when out walking near the coast - the tide comes in very quickly and can easily catch people out. We’re always here to assist and if you ever find yourself in difficulty, don’t hesitate to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Mim Mellors or Eve Kemp RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officers on [email protected] and [email protected] or 07702786966 and 07446888713.

Alternatively you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728 315, or the RNLI Press Office on [email protected] or 01202 336789.