Southend Coastguard responds to THREE incidents in an hour

Southend-on-Sea Coastguard’s first call came at 4.35pm today when they received reports one adult and three children had been cut off by the tide opposite Jubilee Beach.

After arriving at the scene, the team found Essex Police officers were also in attendance and the RNLI Southend was extracting casualties using a hovercraft.

They were then handed over to the coastguard officers who provided a welcome blanket to one casualty and first aid to the others who had sustained cuts.

A spokesman for Southend-on-Sea said: “Southend Coastguard would like to say a special thanks to a young lad who’s name we believe was ‘Joe’.

“He helped the casualties in the water prior to the arrival of the hovercraft.

“Whilst we do not encourage others to help to ensure the safety of themselves, we appreciate their help today.”

During the rescue operation at Jubilee Beach, a coastguard officer was approached by a young female who was intoxicated and struggling to stand.

Read More: Southend coastguard called to 10 incidents in one day

They then entered the seawater while being monitored by the life-saving organisation’s officer who then grew concerned for her welfare.

After requesting the attendance of police and paramedics, crews attempted to coax the female out of the water so that they could deal with the incident in a safer space.

A spokesman for the coastguard added: “Officers then remained on scene in the event further assistance was required by our 999 partners. 

“Once the situation was under control with Essex Police team was stood down.”

Roughly 45 minutes after the first callout and second incident, coastguard personnel were called to the Shoebury Boom, East Beach, where four people had been cut off.

As Southend-on-Sea Coastguard were dealing with the ongoing incident at Jubilee Beach, the team was split so both incidents could be dealt with.

On this occasion, however, while on their way to the scene, the crew was stood down after the casualties made it back to the safety of the beach by themselves.

A spokesman for Southend-on-Sea Coastguard concluded: “Should you see anyone in trouble on or near the coast, don’t hesitate to dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.

“You could save someone’s life.”