Dusk tidal cut off prompts rescue by West Kirby RNLI

At 9.21pm, West Kirby RNLI were requested to launch by HM Coastguard after an individual had called 999 to inform them they were cut off by the rising tide on Hilbre Island.

The volunteer lifeboat crew launched within 10 minutes and made way to the island, navigating challenging weather conditions and approached from the north end due to the state of the tide.

Upon arrival, the crew located the individual and took them safely back to shore where they were met by Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team (WCRT) who offered safety advice.

With the individual being safe and well and not requiring any medical attention, the lifeboat was stood down and returned to station where it was cleaned, refuelled and made ready for service by 11pm.

Gary Price, West Kirby RNLI Launch Authority, said:

‘Knowing the tides and when is safe to visit the islands is vital before planning any trip. When making your way back to shore from Hilbre Island, you should leave the island no later than three hours before the next high tide.

‘In this case the gentleman was correct in calling 999 at the first sign of difficulty and was very appreciative for our help. We encourage anybody who believes they could be in trouble at the coast, or sees anybody else in trouble, to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. We’re here 24/7 365 days a year to help.’

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For more information please contact Eve Kemp, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, on [email protected] or 07446888713.

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.

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The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

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