Five people rescued after being cut off by tide

4 hours ago

Neve Gordon-Farleigh

A Norfolk lifeboat crew was called to assist a group who had got stranded in the darkness near Blakeney harbour

Wells RNLI RNLI volunteers on an inshore lifeboat which is in the water making its way to an incident. One of the men has put his thumb in the air, directing two other volunteers in the water. — A Norfolk lifeboat crew was called to assist a group who had got stranded in the darkness near Blakeney harbour

Five people had to be helped ashore by a lifeboat crew after they were cut off by an incoming tide.

Wells RNLI inshore lifeboat was launched to assist the group, who called 999 after getting stranded at Blakeney harbour in Norfolk at about 21:15 BST on Easter Sunday.

The crew said despite navigating challenging conditions they were able to reach the group and guide them across a creek to higher ground, where they were handed in to the care of coastguard teams.

The RNLI has urged people to check tide times before going out, to be aware of channels and creeks that can cut off a route, and to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Crews made their way back to the lifeboat station after their successful rescue

Wells RNLI Volunteers making their way back up the lifeboat ramp, with the boat behind on a vehicle. — Crews made their way back to the lifeboat station after their successful rescue

James Betteridge, helm of the lifeboat, said: "This incident highlights how quickly the tide can catch people out, particularly around creeks and harbour areas where water can rise and cut off escape routes very quickly.

"The group did the right thing by calling for help early, which meant we could get to them safely."

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