The Hoylake RNLI hovercraft rescued two dog walkers cut off by the incoming tide on Leasowe Beach on Saturday.
The Hurley Spirit launched at 1.15pm and headed to the casualties’ reported location between Barber’s Folly and Leasowe Lighthouse, along with Wirral Coastguard rescue team.
The pair and their dog were located and had been cut off from the sea wall by the rapidly filling gutter.
They were taken on board and after a quick check to ensure they required no medical assistance, 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.
“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.”
Photo credit: Hoylake RNLI