AN emergency search operation was carried out across the River Mersey last night after reports of a "red flare" sighting.

Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team reported that a search operation was launched at around 11.30pm on Saturday, January 20, after 999 calls were made regarding a red flare in the Egremont area.

Red flares are often used as a short range distress signal when experiencing difficulties in water.

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The local coastguard team reported that a search was carried out from New Brighton to Seacombe Ferry terminal, which took place on the same day that a man was airlifted from the water and died after falling overboard a ferry to Birkenhead.

A Merseyside Police traffic officer assisted in the late night search, while Holyhead Coastguard Operations Centre spoke to vessels over the radio to ascertain whether they had seen the flare.

After finding no sign of distress and speaking with further witnesses, the incident was stood down as a "false alarm", with it agreed that the flare was most likely fired in land.

The Coastguard team said: "It is important to remember that flares are not fireworks and should only be used in a maritime distress situation.

"If you have flares that you no longer require, please dispose of them responsibly."