RNLI called to rescue 40 people stranded by high tides in north Norfolk

The RNLI had to rescue 40 people at the weekend who had got cut off from the mainland after rising tides near to Wells in north Norfolk. Credit: RNLI Wells/Facebook
The RNLI had to rescue over 40 people at the weekend who had got cut off from the mainland after rising tides in north Norfolk. Credit: RNLI Wells/Facebook

Lifeboat crews said they were "exceptionally busy" after being called to rescue more than 40 people in Norfolk over the weekend who were cut off from the mainland by high tides.

Crews at RNLI Wells, based in north Norfolk, were called on Saturday to reports that around 30 people were stranded on Scolt Head Island, near Brancaster.

Most people made it back ashore safely but a hovercraft from nearby Hunstanton RNLI assisted 10 people.

Crews were then called after another seven adults, three children and two dogs who were cut off by the incoming tide at Wells-next-the-Sea.

On Sunday, a further six people were left stranded on a sandbank off Wells beach. Four were rescued with the other two able to swim to safety.

The lifeboat charity has rescued over 170 people in similar situations over the past five years. Typically two-thirds of all rescue missions are to help people who have become stranded, the charity said.

Areas of the beach at Wells, Norfolk can be cut off very quickly with fast-moving and cold tidal waters. Credit: RNLI/Facebook

The spate of incidents has prompted the charity to repeat its warning to holidaymakers and locals that beaches affected by tidal changes can be very dangerous.

It advises anyone who finds themselves in that situation to dial 999.

Mandy Humphreys, water safety officer at the RNLI, said: "Wading through water over knee deep, especially in areas of marsh or sandbars can be incredibly hazardous as the depth of water can change very rapidly.

"The drains [channels through sandbanks] near Wells can be up to two metres deep - this can result in sudden full immersion in fast-flowing, cold water which is associated with a high risk of drowning.

"Getting cut off by the tide can be very dangerous. Try to stay dry and calm, call 999 and wait until help arrives."

The warnings come as the east of England is bracing itself for another heatwave next week as temperatures are set to soar to 30C and more people are expected to head to the coast in search of cooler weather.

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know..