Lifeboat, coastguard, helicopter rescue at Flamborough Head

Bridlington and Filey Coastguard Rescue Teams said that they, alongside the Flamborough RNLI lifeboat, were dispatched to Flamborough Head yesterday (April 2) following reports that two people were stranded as the sea closed in around them.

The crews say that, whilst they were able to quickly locate the casualties, challenging conditions and the strength of the incoming tide made it impossible to reach them safely by boat.

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A rescue swimmer from Bridlington Coastguard then entered the water, but with chest-deep water and powerful tides, it was deemed too dangerous.

With options running out and the tide continuing to rise, the decision was made to call in a Coastguard Rescue Helicopter – who arrived with a winch and were able to lift both people to safety on the clifftop.

The helicopter landing (Image: Bridlington Coastguard Rescue Team)

A spokesperson for the Coastguard said: “This incident is a stark reminder of how quickly situations can change along our coastline, especially over busy holiday periods like Easter. What begins as a simple walk can rapidly turn into a life-threatening situation.

“Please always check tide times and plan your route before setting out and if you see a coastal emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”