VISITORS to Leasowe Bay are being warned about the dangers of getting stuck in nearby mud flats after a number of recent rescues.

Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team say some incidents have occurred when the tide is on its way in and people have been rescued with minutes to spare before being surrounded by water.

There are patches of mud surrounding the rocks on the beach behind Leasowe Golf Club.

This area should be avoided by walkers and horse riders.

Michael Buratti, Station Officer for Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team said: "Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team are specially trained and equipped to rescue people from mud however at the moment, we are asking people to think seriously about the unintended consequences of what could happen if you get into trouble when visiting the coast.

"We are urging people to give the coast a miss right now because we want to prevent our emergency services and their families being put at risk of Covid-19 and reduce avoidable pressure on the NHS."

If you do visit the coast though, try and avoid the mud patches but if you do get stuck:

  • Stay calm
  • Avoid moving too much
  • Spread your weight by sitting down, this will stop you sinking further
  • Discourage people from trying to rescue you as they may get stuck too
  • Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard