Hoylake RNLI urges public to respect the water following Leasowe Beach rescue
Three dog walkers were rescued by Hoylake RNLI hovercraft on Thursday 2 May after getting cut off by the incoming tide on Leasowe Beach.
The Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team had been tasked when members of the public raised concerns for the walkers’ safety. The Coastguard attempted to alert the casualties of the danger from the shore.
Hoylake RNLI hovercraft Hurley Spirit was requested to launch by HM Coastguard at 3.57pm. The volunteer crew quickly launched and headed to the casualties’ reported location to the east of Leasowe Lighthouse.
The three casualties and their dog were soon located near the water’s edge, having become cut off by deep water in the tidal gutter. With no safe route to walk ashore, they were assisted on board the RNLI hovercraft and flown back to the sea wall where they were met by Coastguard officers.
Hoylake RNLI hovercraft commander Harry Jones said: ‘The tide can come in very quickly on the Wirral coast and cut you off from the shore unexpectedly. The casualties and their dog could have soon found themselves in serious danger with the beach around them rapidly getting covered by the tide.’
Harry added: ‘As the weather warms up this spring, we encourage everyone to respect the water and use a lifeguarded beach if they’re heading to the coast. It’s important to check tide times, weather forecasts and local safety signage. Always carry a way of calling for help and keep an eye on your surroundings. If you get into difficulty, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’
Media contacts
For more information, please contact:
Dan Whiteley, Hoylake RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer on 07799 851 316 or email [email protected]
Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager on 07977 728 315 or email [email protected]
RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.