Blackpool, United Kingdom – A mother is sharing the terrifying moment her 10-year-old son Subby and 12-year-old nephew Kizza were rescued after becoming trapped by rising water while holding onto pier supports during a family visit on May 28.

Zully, from Leeds, said she watched the boys struggle as waves crashed around them and the tide quickly rose. She tried to reach them but feared the worst as her son went underwater.

“I knew he’d cling on if he could hear my voice telling him not to let go, but by now the water was rising fast and I could see him going under,” Zully said.

A member of the public called emergency services, and the Coastguard requested the launch of the Blackpool RNLI lifeboat. The volunteer crew arrived within four minutes and immediately located the two children.

The lifeboat was carefully moved alongside the pier supports, allowing the crew to pull Subby and Kizza safely aboard. A second RNLI lifeboat later helped complete the rescue of the adult who remained on the pier supports.

Zully praised the rescuers who responded to the emergency and said their actions saved her family.

The family had travelled to Blackpool during the May half term to celebrate Eid al-Adha. Zully said she had checked the tide before the trip but never expected conditions to change so quickly.

The RNLI is now working with Zully to raise awareness of coastal dangers ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day. Officials are encouraging people to check tide times, carry a way to call for help, and learn how to float during an emergency.

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