New Brighton – Three swimmers were rescued on Thursday 27 November in a major multi-agency operation involving New Brighton RNLI, Hoylake RNLI and HM Coastguard in the Leasowe Bay area.

The pager sounded for New Brighton’s volunteer crew at 2.46pm, with initial reports indicating a single swimmer in difficulty.

Facing a westerly force 6 wind, rough seas and 1–1.5m swells on a high tide of about 8m, the crew launched their Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Charles Dibdin, and battled heavy conditions en route.

While the lifeboat was underway, HM Coastguard reported that there were actually three casualties. One had managed to reach the rocks with minimal injuries, but two were in grave danger in breaking surf, being repeatedly washed into the rock face.

On arrival, the crew attempted to recover the swimmers by sea, but the conditions were too dangerous. A lifeboat crew member entered the water from the Atlantic 85 and, together with a Coastguard Rescue Team member, moved each casualty higher up the rocks and out of the surf.

Hoylake RNLI’s Shannon class all-weather lifeboat, Edmund Hawthorn Micklewood, also launched to support the rescue after its Inshore Rescue Hovercraft was stood down due to worsening conditions. Hoylake’s crew provided safety cover throughout the shout.

HM Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 936 arrived shortly afterward. The winchman reached RNLI and Coastguard crews on the rocks and airlifted the two injured swimmers to the beach, where paramedics were waiting. Both casualties were in ambulance care by around 4.10pm and taken to hospital for further assessment.

Mark Harding, New Brighton Helm, described the incident as an “incredibly difficult rescue” with high stakes and challenging conditions. He noted that one member of the swim group managed to get ashore and raise the alarm, which likely saved lives.

He added that the group’s experience shows that even well-prepared swimmers can be caught out by the sea.

Chris Cousens, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, urged coastal swimmers to never go alone, to carry a means of communication, wear appropriate kit, and use bright clothing or a tow float. He reminded those in trouble to “Float to Live” and advised the public to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if they see someone in distress.

All RNLI crew members returned safe, and both lifeboats were back at their stations a short time later. This shout was notable as the first for New Brighton shore crew volunteer Jack Prince, the first in command for Hoylake’s Harry Jones, and the first afloat shout for crew member Dave Mackenzie.

RNLI crews in New Brighton and Hoylake will remain on call throughout Christmas and New Year, ready to leave celebrations to respond to emergencies. RNLI lifeboats launch more than 100 times during the Christmas period annually, with 119 shouts recorded in 2024.

These rescues are made possible by donations that fund the essential equipment and training needed to save lives at sea.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download