FLINTSHIRE emergency service workers joined a multi-agency rescue operation on the Wirral.

Flint Coastguard Rescue Team confirmed that shortly before 9.40pm on Friday it was tasked by UK Coastguard to assist Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team with an operation.

It concerned reports of four people stuck in mud near Manor Groyne in Wallasey.

Upon arriving the team was informed that one of the people had been walked out of the mud by Merseyside Police and another had been walked off by coastguard rescue officers and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

The remaining two people were transported back to shore on stretchers by a pair of coastguard mud technicians - one each from Flint and Wirral - as well as firefighters.

A spokesman for Flint Coastguard Rescue Team said: "On shore all persons were handed over to North West Ambulance Service - no hospital attention required.

"RNLI Hoylake Lifeboat Station hovercraft also tasked but stood down on route.

"This was a fantastic example of multi agency working. Please be aware that mud flats at the beach are treacherous and it is very easy to become stuck fast and at serious risk from rising tides."

The National Police Air Service was also called to the scene, the spokesman added.

Flint Coastguard Rescue Team has also offered advice on what to do if walkers find themselves in mud.

A spokesman said: "As soon as sand underfoot becomes muddy and soft, return to firm ground immediately.

"In a Coastal Emergency please dial 9️9️9 and ask for the Coastguard."