BANK HOLIDAY VISITORS WARNED TO WATCH OUT FOR INCOMING TIDES

Falmouth Coastguard are warning visitors to the coast to watch out for incoming tides after six people were cut off by tonight in two incidents on the Cornish coast.

The first call for help was received at 7pm from two people who had been cut off by the tide at Zacrys Island, Newquay. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre at Falmouth sent the Newquay Coastguard Rescue Team and the RNLI Lifeboats from Newquay to the scene. When they got to Zacrys Island it became clear that the sea conditions made a boat rescue difficult and so the Royal Navy Rescue helicopter from Culdrose was asked to winch the couple to safety. The helicopter landed them on the cliff top from where they were taken for a medical check-up.
The second call was received by the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre at Falmouth just one minute later. A person had been heard calling for help by a member of the public at Gooden Heane Cove, Portreath. Portreath Coastguard Rescue Team was sent to the scene where they found that four people had been cut off by the tide. The Coastguard rescue team rescued all four by lifting them to the safety of the cliff top using rope rescue techniques.
Coastguard Watch Officer Richard Williams said:
“We have spring tides at the moment that come in faster and further than usual. For this reason people out and about enjoying the Cornish coastline need to be especially careful to plan their trip.
“Always check the weather and tide timetable before you set out on your walk and wear appropriate clothing for the unseasonably cold weather. If you do get cut off call 999 Coastguard.” 
-Ends-

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