RNLI issues advice following Leasowe Beach dog walker rescue

When a dog walker found herself cut off by the fast flooding tide in the dark near Leasowe Lighthouse on Monday 16 September, HM Coastguard requested the launch of Hoylake RNLI hovercraft and New Brighton RNLI lifeboat, alongside the Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team.

The Coastguard had located the casualty from the shore and encouraged her to head to a safer area of the beach by walking towards Meols.

The RNLI hovercraft Hurley Spirit and her volunteer crew were tasked at 8.22pm and soon arrived on scene near to Barber’s Folly alongside New Brighton’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat Charles Dibdin, which had been out on exercise before the tasking.

The casualty and her dog were assisted on board the RNLI hovercraft and after a quick check by the crew to make sure they were both safe and well, the casualty and her dog were flown over the deepening tidal gutter and passed to Coastguard officers.

Hoylake RNLI hovercraft commander Matt Pownall-Jones said: ‘The tide around the Wirral coast can flood in very quickly and is especially treacherous in the dark. If the alarm hadn’t been raised, the casualty and her dog would have been in greater danger with the beach around them soon covered by the tide.’

Matt added: ‘With the nights drawing in and regular RNLI Lifeguard patrols ending at the end of September, we encourage everyone heading to the coast to always check the tidal conditions, weather and local safety signage. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and know your route to safety. Carry a means of calling for help and if you get into difficulty, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

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