West Kirby RNLI comes to the aid of stranded vessels

West Kirby RNLI launched to provide assistance to a motor boat and kayak stranded to the east side of Hilbre Island near to Stanley Road slipway.

West Kirby RNLI volunteer crew was requested by HM Coastguard to launch at 1:53pm yesterday afternoon following a call from one of the two casualties. The engine of the motor vessel had failed and the casualties, one onboard each of the vessels, had attempted to row to shore against an ebbing tide but had exhausted themselves in the process.

The casualties called 999 and asked for HM Coastguard for guidance and support, who tasked West Kirby RNLI to immediately launch. The local Wirral HM Coastguard unit arrived on the scene and were able to reach the casualties from the nearby beach. The two casualties were quickly transferred into West Kirby RNLI’s inshore lifeboat following an assessment of the risk of them being carried out to sea on the ebbing tide.

West Kirby RNLI’s inshore lifeboat returned the casualties and the vessels to Sandy Lane slipway adjacent to West Kirby Sailing Club. They were met by HM Coastguard, who provided further casualty care.

Speaking following the call out, Andrew Brown, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Deputy Launch Authority said, “The casualties made the correct decision when they called 999 and asked for the Coastguard as they were in an increasingly vulnerable position due to the ebbing tide. HM Coastguard and West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat worked closely together to ensure the safest outcome for the casualties while preventing any further risk.”

Image Credit: RNLI/David Edwards