DON’T GET CAUGHT OUT AS LARGE WAVES BATTER THE UK COAST

Two women, two young babies in pushchairs and a dog have been rescued after being hit by a large wave at Louisa Bay, Broadstairs.

Dover Coastguard received a 999 call from a member of the public who spotted them in trouble as they walked along the promenade.

The Margate Coastguard Rescue Team was sent to the scene and found the group sheltering behind a nearby container. One of the Coastguard Rescue Officers managed to guide them to safety in between the waves crashing over.

Shortly afterwards, Dover Coastguard was contacted by another member of the public who believed a dog walker had been swept out to sea by large waves in the same area. Two RNLI lifeboats from Ramsgate were launched, along with the search and rescue helicopter from RAF Wattisham. Luckily, the man and dog were found safe and well soon afterwards and all units were stood down.

Tony Evans, Senior Watch Manager at Dover Coastguard, said:

"With one of the worst tidal surges we’ve seen in recent years, we would urge members of the public to take extra care along our coastline at this time.

"These types of conditions, with choppy seas and large waves, are likely to be with us for a few days yet, so please don’t take risks.


"If you do get into difficulty, or spot someone else in trouble, call 999 straight away and ask for the Coastguard.”

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