Margate’s RNLI lifeboat crew was called into action on Sunday afternoon (April 20) following reports that two people and a dog were cut off by the rising tide between Joss Bay and Stone Bay in Broadstairs.

HM Coastguard received a distress call at approximately 4pm, prompting the launch of Margate’s D-class inshore lifeboat. The Margate Coastguard Rescue Team also attended and conducted searches along the cliffs and shoreline, while the lifeboat carried out an inshore search of the surrounding waters.

Despite extensive efforts by the emergency teams, no individuals were found at the scene. After completing a thorough search of the area and with no further sightings or calls for help, the search was stood down. It is believed that the individuals and the dog managed to make their way to safety independently.

Lifeboat Operations Manager Lee Button said:

“After a thorough search, it is assumed the two people and the dog were able to make their own way to safety. In the first instance, we urge people to check local tide times before venturing along the foreshore and around headlands. High tide times for Margate or elsewhere are readily available online.”

He added that the north-easterly winds and rough sea conditions at the time could have made any attempt to self-rescue by entering the water particularly dangerous.

“If anyone finds themselves cut off by the tide, they should remain in a safe location and call for assistance by dialling 999 and asking for the Coastguard or by attracting the attention of someone nearby,” Button said.

The RNLI and Coastguard services continue to emphasise the importance of tide awareness, especially during holiday periods when coastal visits increase.

The RNLI, an independent charity not funded by the UK government, has saved over 142,700 lives since its founding in 1824. The charity relies on donations to continue operating its lifesaving services.

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