Public warning after two people cut off by waves in daring Cornwall cliff rescue

The RNLI have waarned members of the public about the dangers of being cut off by the tide after two people were rescued by coastguards after finding themselves stuck on a cliff edge.

Coastguards in Cornwall sprung into action after recieving an emergency call at 6.11pm on Saturday, July 26. They were informed of two people needing assistance after being cut off by the tide. Polzeath Coastguard were paged to reports the pair were in trouble at near Greenaway Beach, close to the town.

The team used ropes to lift them to safety amid pounding waves and an unstable cliff face. Rock RNLI Lifeboat was also tasked and arrived on scene at the same time. Duee to the treacherous conditions at sea the safest means of resuce was using ropes to be pulled up the cliff face.

READ MORE: Man, 20, dies after falling ill in Ibiza club as heartbroken sisters pay tribute

Sharing a video of the damatic rescue on their Facebook page the waves can be seen crashing against the rocks the distressed members of the public stood on.

A coastguard spokesperson said: “Initially the lifeboat looked to pick up the two people but due to the sea conditions a rope rescue was deemed to be the safest option. Boscastle Coastguard Team and HM Coastguard Padstow were also paged to assist with the rescue.”

The spokesperson added: “With Rock lifeboat standing by as safety cover, a cliff technician was lowered to the two people. Battling large breaking waves and an unsteady cliff face they were recovered one by one to safety."

The coastguard stressed that being cut off by the tide can happen quickly, they issued the following warning and advice: "Being cut off by the tide can happen quickly, especially on beaches with sandbars or small coves. To avoid getting cut off, it's crucial to check tide times before setting out for the day."

If you spot anyone in difficulty or in danger along our coast, Dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.

The UK and Ireland are home to some beautiful beaches, ideal for a day out. But they can also be dangerous if you don’t know what to do in an emergency, especially if there are no RNLI lifeguards around.

Click here to read the RNLI's beach safety tips and find out how to keep you and your loved ones safe at the beach - both in and out of the water.