Five people, including three children, were rescued by RNLI crews after their vehicle was caught in a tide and drifted off Holy Island Causeway. RNLI Seahouses Lifeboat Station was called out at 5.05pm on Wednesday, September 30.
The crew received reports of a vehicle stranded on the causeway, with two adults and three children inside. All five remained inside their vehicle, which had drifted off the carriageway.
Multi-agency response
A number of other rescue teams were also called, and the five people were safely brought back to shore. On its social media channels, RNLI Seahouses Lifeboat Station explained what happened.
It said: "Our crew were tasked by Humber Coastguard to launch immediately on service following reports of a vehicle stranded on the Holy Island Causeway, with 2 adults and 3 children believed to be inside. Within minutes, our RNLI D-Class Inshore Lifeboat was launched and making best speed towards the last reported position."
"As further information came through, we were advised that all five people remained inside the vehicle — however, the vehicle had drifted off the carriageway. This quickly developed into a significant multi-agency response, including Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 189, Seahouses Coastguard Rescue Team, Berwick Coastguard rescue team - Holy Island Coastguard, North East Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust and Northumbria Police."
Safety warning issued
"Thankfully, all five people were safely rescued and returned to shore." The RNLI is now urging people to take note of safe crossing times.
The team added: "But this incident is another stark reminder of just how quickly the tide can turn on the Holy Island Causeway. The causeway is tidal. The safe crossing times are there for a reason."
"Please check the official safe crossing times before travelling, allow plenty of time, and NEVER attempt to cross when water is covering the road. The tide can rise rapidly and conditions can change quickly."
"This was a vehicle carrying three children. What could have been a family journey home could have had a very different outcome. A huge thank you to everyone involved in yesterday's response."
