The RNLI crew at Hoylake are urging visitors to the Wirral coast to take extra care after two call-outs during the half term break to people cut off by high tides.
Hoylake RNLI hovercraft was called to the rescue in two incidents on Leasowe Beach this week as high ‘spring’ tides saw fast-flooding water cutting walkers off from the shore.
On Wednesday 22 February, two dog walkers found themselves cut off while out enjoying a sunny morning walk. The alarm was raised at 9.47am and the hovercraft Hurley Spirit and her volunteer crew launched to the casualties’ reported location between Barber’s Folly and Leasowe Lighthouse. The Wirral and Crosby Coastguard Rescue Teams were also tasked.
The two casualties and their dogs were soon located near the small boat moorings at Meols and were helped on board the RNLI hovercraft as the tide covered the area where they were stood. After a quick check to ensure they needed no medical assistance, the casualties and their dogs were flown ashore to Meols and passed to Coastguard officers.
The next day on Thursday 23 February, a dog walker and a family of five were also reportedly at risk of getting cut off by the incoming tide on Leasowe Beach. The hovercraft Hurley Spirit and her volunteer crew were tasked again at 10.33am alongside the Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team.
While on their way to the scene, it was confirmed that all of the casualties had managed to make their own way ashore safely. As the tide was still flooding, the Coastguard requested that the RNLI hovercraft sweep the beach to ensure nobody else was in difficulty. The RNLI hovercraft crew searched the shoreline and with nobody else needing any assistance, the hovercraft was stood down and returned to station.
Hoylake RNLI hovercraft commander Matt Pownall-Jones said, “We’ve seen some big “spring” tides on the Wirral coast this week, so our beaches will be covered by the high water much quicker than usual.
“It’s quite common for people out walking to find themselves cut off unexpectedly, so it’s lucky that the alarm was raised in good time on both occasions, otherwise the casualties may have found themselves in a much more dangerous situation.”
Matt added, “Our RNLI crews and lifeguards respond to hundreds of incidents each year with people cut off by the tide, particularly during the school holidays. If you’re heading out across the beach, always check the weather forecast, tide times and local safety signage, keep an eye on your surroundings, and know your route to safety.
“Always carry a means of calling for help and if you get into difficulty, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
Image: Hoylake RNLI
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