West Kirby RNLI are joined by helicopter in rescue from Middle Eye

West Kirby RNLI were called out to Middle Eye to assist two adults, one of whom was injured, and a dog cut off by tide.

West Kirby RNLI was requested by HM Coastguard to launch at 10.39am having received a 999 call from a couple in distress on Middle Eye. The couple had been on a regular walk to Middle Eye when the female had fallen on rocks and sustained an injury.

The couple had been able to walk the remaining 150m to Middle Eye so as to rest and for the female casualty to recuperate sufficiently from the injury to walk ashore. Within 50m they realised that the female walker was in severe pain and unable to walk at speed. The 9.24m tide was quickly flooding so they retreated back to Middle Eye and climbed to higher ground due to uncertainty of tide height.

West Kirby RNLI volunteer crew, upon reaching the casualties, carried out a medical assessment and the female was in severe pain and requiring immediate medical support. Medical treatment and oxygen were provided, however, the casualty continued to deteriorate due to a suspected hip injury.

West Kirby RNLI consulted with HM Coastguard and requested HMG Rescue 936 helicopter be dispatched to Middle Eye, ensuring the safest possible transfer of the injured female casualty, avoiding any additional discomfort or injury.

HMG Rescue 936 helicopter landed on Middle Eye and the female casualty was given further medical treatment. She was transported to the North End of the Marine Lake to awaiting paramedics and local HM Coastguard teams prior to being transferred to hospital. West Kirby RNLI volunteer crew during this time transported the male casualty and dog via inshore lifeboat.

Speaking following the call out, Andrew Brown, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Deputy Launch Authority said:

‘Fantastic team work by West Kirby RNLI, North West Ambulance service and national and local HM Coastguard teams who were all involved in the coordination of today’s response.

‘Getting cut off by the tide can be a frightening experience and we would remind visitors to check the tidal information on the notice board opposite the ice cream shop at the Dee Lane end of the Marine Lake before setting out and to take appropriate clothing. Today’s incident could have had a more troubling outcome but for the casualties quick thinking, calling 999 for the Coastguard when they realised they were in danger and the RNLI and Coastguard teams collaborative professional and quick response.