Lifeboat crew rescues stranded walker from Hilbre Island

Mar 21 2012 by Helen Hunt, Wallasey News

A WIRRAL lifeboat crew rescued a walker who became stranded on the beach after miscalculating the rising tide.

The man, in his forties from Liverpool, found himself cut off from the mainland after visiting Hilbre Island. When he realised he was isolated, he called the coastguard and was advised to remain on Little Eye – the smallest of the Hilbre Islands – while the coastguard summoned help.

West Kirby’s Inshore Lifeboat was launched and brought the man, who was shaken and feeling sick after his ordeal, to safety.

The drama unfolded on the afternoon of Wednesday, March 14.

Richard Diamond, the Lifeboat Helm for the rescue, said: “The gentleman did the right thing by remaining on the island and not risking his life by attempting to return to the mainland through the water on a rising tide.”

Lifeboat operations manager Dave Henshaw reminded walkers to always check the weather and tide before visiting the Island.