Beachgoers get stuck in mud flats attempting to reach the sea in Weston-super-Mare
Weston Coastguard Rescue Team said it was called out 55 times on Wednesday
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Dozens of beachgoers have been spotted getting stuck in mud flats trying to reach the sea in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset.
One onlooker said “over a hundred” people had made their way to the water during low tide but got into difficulty in the soft surface.
Pictures from the scene show one woman struggling through the sludge attempting to carry a small child back to the shore.
Members of the coastguard can be seen attempting to help revellers who had attempted to go for a swim on the hottest day of the year so far.
Weston Coastguard Rescue Team said in a tweet it had received 55 call outs on Wednesday, some of which dealt with those stuck in the mud.
“Incidents we’ve dealt with today...persons trying to reach the sea via mudflats, [they] realised the distance and gave up,” it read.
The rescue team has been called out to deal with people struggling on the mudflats at least 12 times in the past month.
It has previously warned those heading to the beach to remain vigilant.
“Our key safety messages at the moment are that if people travel to the coast to enjoy the hot weather they should check tide times, weather forecasts and local safety signage,” a spokesperson said last month.
“People should keep a close eye on their family and ensure they stay safe.
“Inflatables should only be used in safe areas such as Marine Lake and not in the sea.”
Thousands of Britons have been flocking to beaches and beauty spots across the UK to make the most of the ongoing heatwave.
The mercury hit 32.6C (90.6F) on Wednesday near London in the hottest day of 2020 so far, although forecasters say that record could be broken by the end of the week.
Health authorities have warned the most vulnerable to protect themselves amid the “exceptionally hot weather forecast this week”, with people being advised to stay cool and stay hydrated where possible.
Additional reporting by SWNS
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments