Wirral Coastguard has issued a warning to people walking to and from Hilbre Island due to changes to sand on the beach.
They have revealed that the RNLI in West Kirby has discovered significant changes to the beach topology between Little Eye and Middle Eye following Storm Amy.
The area now has softer sand in places and has formed areas of deep mud with the risk of mud entrapment.
The Coastguard said: “The mud to the east of the rock causeway between Little and Middle Eye is indeed very deep in parts.
“Much of the sand has also been scoured out by the storm lowering the sand level in other areas by approximately 0.3 to 0.75 metres and has also exposed more of the rock bed. The effect of this could be that the tides will cut off the high ground quicker than before.
“Incoming tides and the risk of mud entrapment are not a good mix. We are planning a further visit to practice and hone our mud rescue techniques in this area so we can update our awareness of local conditions.
“In the meantime we advise that extra caution is taken when walking this route.”
“We are very grateful to West Kirby Lifeboat Station’s Lifeboat Operations Manager for the call. Cooperation in this way contributes to updating response rescue plans and improving the safety of our community.”
The affected area is marked in red in the image above
They are advising that people keep away from the rock causeway and mud in this area at all states of tide.
If you do get stuck in mud you should:
- Stop and try to retrace your steps back to firmer ground
- Stay as still as possible and don’t panic
- Sit down to spread your weight and stop you sinking further
- Dial 999 and ask for The Coastguard
- Shout for help if you don’t have access to a phone.
- Don’t let anybody else try to rescue you and become a casualty themselves
Photo credits: West Kirby RNLI and Paul Ambrose
