IF you're planning a trip to the coast for lockdown exercise this weekend check the tide times and keep a close eye on your surroundings ...

That's the warning from coastguards following a rescue in Leasowe Bay yesterday.

Hoylake RNLI hovercraft was requested to launch by the UK Coastguard at around midday to reports of several people cut off by the incoming tide.

Some had reportedly entered the water in Leasowe Bay, crossing the flooding channel to reach the sea wall.

The RNLI hovercraft Hurley Spirit and volunteer crew was launched and headed quickly towards Leasowe.

Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team had also been tasked and while the hovercraft was en route, the Coastgaurd confirmed there was only one casualty still cut off by the tide near Leasowe Lighthouse.

Two Coastguard officers had waded across the gutter and reached the casualty, before the hovercraft arrived to meet them.

The casualty was brought on board the hovercraft and as she required no medical attention, the RNLI crew flew her safely ashore to the steps in the sea wall at Meols.

Wirral Globe:

Pic: Hoylake RNLI

The casualty was passed to waiting Coastguard officers before the hovercraft returned to the lifeboat station to be washed down, refuelled and made ready for service again.

Wirral Globe:

Hoylake RNLI hovercraft commander Harry Jones said: "Our local beaches are likely to get busier as we head towards the spring, so the RNLI is asking everyone to stay safe if you're heading to the coast for exercise.

"Please check local tide times, weather forecasts and safety signage.

"Keep an eye on your surroundings and know your route to safety.

"Always carry a fully-charged phone and if you or someone else gets into difficulty, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard."