West Kirby RNLI tasked to tidal cut off at Hilbre Island

Yesterday (Thursday 3 April), West Kirby RNLI’s volunteer crew was tasked by HM Coastguard at 2.41pm following reports of an injured person in the water near Little Eye.

Following the initial report from two off-duty RNLI lifeguards, Wirral Coastguard Rescue Officers waded out to investigate, and were met on scene by the D class lifeboat, Leonard Pownall. Upon arrival at Little Eye, West Kirby lifeboat conducted a thorough search of the surrounding area, after the Coastguard Rescue Officers found nobody on the island.

During the search, the crew discovered a group of four individuals on Hilbre Island that had been cut off by the incoming tide, but confirmed they were happy to wait for low water before making their way back. It was also established that the initial casualty had earlier been part of this group, and after making contact with him via the individuals on scene, it was found he had made it ashore by wading through the water from Little Eye to West Kirby beach.

While on Hilbre Island, the crew assisted an additional casualty, returning them safely to shore to be checked over by shore crew and Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team, who offered safety advice.

The lifeboat was stood down after confirmation from the Coastguard that they were satisfied there were no further casualties.

West Kirby RNLI Helm, Tom Clark, said:

‘Thank you to the off-duty lifeguards who, using their local knowledge and experience, sighted persons at risk of being cut off by the incoming tide and quickly raised the alarm. Many people are not aware that the tide loops around the islands and advances quicker than expected.

‘Luckily today, all but one of the casualties managed to safely make their way back to shore without our assistance. Please, if you are visiting the islands, check the tide times and ensure you have a means of calling for help if required. We advise leaving Hilbre Island no later than three hours before high tide.

‘I would also like to thank our dedicated crew, who yet again this week dropped what they were doing to respond to the pager. This has been a busy week for us as a station, and the dedication of our crew has been proved time and time again in the past week.’

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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.