Coastguard and lifeboat officers launched a rescue mission after concerns for two people cut off by the tide off Thorpe Bay.

The coastguard in Southend was tasked to the reports of people cut off by the tide at the Mulberry Harbour by a concerned member of the public on Monday.

The team were able to get eyes on and monitor the people returning back when at the coastguard station, and kept Dover Maritime Rescue Co-Ordination Centre informed of their progress.

The RNLI's lifeboat hovercraft in Southend was tasked by the centre as a precaution.

The hovercraft proceeded to intercept the pair who, by now, had made it to the moorings and confirmed no further escalation was necessary and teams were stood down once they were out of any potential danger.

A HM Coastguard spokesman said: "We will always advise anyone to not walk out to the Mulberry Harbour if you are unfamiliar with local tides and not familiar with the moving mudflats.

"If you do go out please come back via heading ‘west’ as that will take you through the lowest tidal channels and away from incoming water. Warning: mud/sand banks change so you are personably responsible for yours and your families' safety.

"Also if you see multi people coming back from the Mulberry Harbour, it is a sure sign that you must do the same and not remain in situ!

"Please have an enjoyable but ‘safe‘ week ahead with the weather warming up towards the bank holiday weekend."