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Four callouts in four day for West Kirby Lifeboat crews

Lifeboat crews in West Kirby were called out four times over a four-day period as large numbers of people visited the area.

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Lifeboat crews in West Kirby were called out four times over a four-day period as large numbers of people visited the area.

The service has also revealed that vehicles blocking launch sites and emergency access routes hampered their response.

The first incident took place Thursday 28 May when the lifeboat was launched to two people who had become cut off by the tide after walking out towards Hilbre Island.

Unaware of the incoming tide, they attempted to return to shore before wading back through the rising water to reach Hilbre Island.

They were brought safely back to shore where they were met by the Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team.

On Friday, the crew were requested by the Coastguard to provide support to a lifeguard treating a young casualty on the beach.

They were then called to a second medical incident involving a young man who had been swimming in the Marine Lake. The crew assisted with casualty care before they were transferred into the care of the ambulance service.

Later the same day, the crew launched again following concerns for a large number of people making their way towards the islands and across the shoreline as the tide was flooding, with the Coastguard requesting the crew carry out a welfare check.

Due to multiple groups being spread out across a large tidal area, Hoylake RNLI’s hovercraft was also tasked to assist with checking the area, alongside the Coastguard, but a search found nobody in danger. The crew stayed whilst members of the public made their way to shore.

The fourth incident happened on Sunday 31 May after reports of three people potentially cut off between Middle Eye and Hilbre Island by the incoming tide.

However it was discovered they had decided to remain safely on Middle Eye until the tide went back out.

Richard Diamond, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, said: "A huge thank you to the public for alerting the emergency services when concerns were raised.

"It has been a particularly busy period for our volunteer crew and their families, balancing training exercises, multiple callouts and time with loved ones during the half term week, so well done and thank you.

"I'd also like to remind people to take extra care when parking near the coast. Our launch sites and emergency access routes are clearly marked with yellow hatchings and signage, but we continue to encounter vehicles and other obstructions in these areas, including on multiple occasions this week.

"Blocking a launch site can delay, and in some circumstances prevent, our ability to launch when lives may be at risk. We would ask everyone visiting the area to check where they are parking and ensure emergency access routes remain clear at all times.

"If you see anyone in difficulty at the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. We would also encourage anyone planning a visit to the islands to check tide times and conditions before setting out."

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