A search and rescue operation is underway at an Essex beach after a family, including children, became trapped by the rising tide on Wednesday. The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. when the group may have walked out to a sandbank off the coast of West Mersea.
Multiple emergency services were dispatched to the scene, including at least six ambulances, a dozen police cars, a fire engine, a lifeboat, two air ambulances, and a coastguard helicopter. One coastguard truck remained on the beach into the night near a cordoned-off area. Other emergency vehicles were parked near beach huts adjacent to the West Mersea Holiday Park.
Witnesses reported hearing helicopters and seeing emergency services working on someone on the beach. Some heard shouts of encouragement and could not determine if the person was a man or woman. Reports from individuals on the beach suggested that children may have gotten into difficulty in the water, prompting adults to enter the water to help, only to encounter difficulties themselves. There were also accounts of other beachgoers attempting to assist.
Essex Police stated that emergency services were on scene for an ongoing incident and requested the public to avoid the Seaview Avenue and beach area. A spokesperson for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency declined to comment. The RNLI confirmed that its West Mersea lifeboat was launched, and a lifeboat from Clacton was also sent to the emergency. The East Anglian Air Ambulance also dispatched a helicopter.
The area is known for its strong currents, which can pose a risk to swimmers and visitors.