RESCUERS were called to save two people who had reportedly got stuck in mud attempting to save a stray dog.

HM Coastguards sent Canvey Coastguards, and a crew from RNLI Southend Lifeboat, to the shores of Chalkwell, near Crowstone Avenue, on Monday at about 12.30pm.

They had received various reports of two people trapped in sinking mud during high tide.

The team soon found out the two people were trying to rescue a dog whom they thought was struggling in the mud.

But it turned out the two people were about to get free - and the pooch was saved too.

Mick Allwood, from Canvey Coastguards, said: “The initial call was two people stuck in the mud in the Leigh and Chalkwell area and there was nothing about a dog. When we arrived there the two people were fine and we found out they thought the dog was in trouble.

“The dog was enjoying itself as it was chasing seagulls.

“It was a stray dog.

“A hovercraft tried to push the dog back to shore.

“There was also an animal charity group trying to collect the dog, but it wanted its freedom instead. We were there for half an hour.

“Rescuing people from sinking mud does require quite a big operation.”

Mr Allwood advised residents how to prevent themselves from sinking further into mud if you find themselves in a troublesome situation.

He said: “I stress people should call as soon as they see an emergency.

“If someone delays the call by ten minutes, that is ten minutes gone and every second is crucial.

“If people find themselves stuck in mud, call 999 and ask for coastguards.

“Don’t panic and spread your body weight.

“Try and lay flat.

“The more you move, the more suction you create in the mud.”

The dog was last seen running pass The Arches cafes.