Hoylake RNLI hovercraft was requested to launch by the UK Coastguard at 1.15pm on Saturday 28 January to reports of two dog walkers cut off by the incoming tide on Leasowe Beach.
The hovercraft Hurley Spirit and her volunteer crew launched and headed to the casualties’ reported location between Barber’s Folly and Leasowe Lighthouse. The Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team had also been tasked.
The two casualties and their dog were soon located and were cut off from the sea wall by the rapidly filling gutter. They were assisted on board the RNLI hovercraft and after a quick check to ensure they required no medical assistance – and a dog treat for their canine companion – the casualties were flown ashore to Meols and passed to Coastguard officers.
Hoylake RNLI Coxswain Howie Owen said, ‘The tide around the Wirral coast can flood in very quickly and it’s not uncommon for people out walking to find themselves cut off unexpectedly. If the alarm hadn’t been raised in good time, the casualties and their dog would have been in greater danger with the beach around them soon covered by the tide.’
Howie added, ‘The RNLI launches to hundreds of incidents each year with people cut off by the tide. 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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