Horse riders stranded on Scolt Head Island, Norfolk

A 999 call just before 17:20 yesterday (12th October) alerted the UK Coastguard to three horse riders who had become stranded by the incoming tide on Scolt Island, near Brancaster, Norfolk. A member of the public could see the three horse riders with their horses attempting to find a safe place to get off the island to no avail. Coastguard rescue teams from Wells and Cley and the Wells RNLI lifeboat were all sent to the area. Against advice, the riders decided to spend the night on the island in the rain with their horses. Provisions of water, food, blankets, hay and a tent were taken to the island by the lifeboat. The Coastguard remained in contact with the riders throughout the night. At approximately 3am this morning, the riders and the horses all made it back to the main land with help from the Cley and Wells Coastguard Rescue Teams and the Wells inshore lifeboat. Richard Johnson, from the UK Coastguard said:​ This is another example why it is so important that you check the tide times before you head out and make sure that you leave plenty of time for your return. If you do become stranded, stay on the shore, do not attempt to cross and call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

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