Two people rescued from mud and rising tide off New Brighton
A hovercraft crew were among teams called to help as water closed in
Two people were brought to safety after becoming stuck in mud as the tide came in off the coast of New Brighton on Friday 24th April.
The alarm was raised when both casualties got into difficulty on the North Bank during a flooding tide.
A hovercraft from Hoylake RNLI was launched at 12:31pm following a request from HM Coastguard.
Rescue effort as tide moved in
When crews reached the scene, one person was in an electric wheelchair which had become stuck close to the tideline.
Water had already begun to cover the wheels as conditions worsened.
Teams from the Coastguard and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service were also sent to help.
The casualty in the wheelchair was moved onto the RNLI hovercraft, while the second person was able to make their own way back to shore.
The hovercraft then transported the casualty to safety, where Coastguard officers took over their care.
Emergency crews later recovered the wheelchair from the mud.
First rescue for hovercraft commander
The callout marked the first rescue led by Hoylake RNLI hovercraft commander Chris Gaskin.
Chris said: “The coordinated response ensured a swift and effective rescue and it was fortunate the alarm was raised in good time. We’re pleased both casualties could be assisted before the situation became more serious. It was a great example of a multi-agency effort between our RNLI crew, Coastguard Rescue Teams, and the Fire and Rescue Service.”
He added: “This incident highlights how quickly conditions can change along our coastline. Soft sand and mud are a common feature on local beaches and can pose a risk to safety, particularly with a flooding tide. We would always urge beachgoers to check tide times, keep an eye on their surroundings and stay clear of muddy areas. In an emergency at the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”