These two children seen wading through mud to reach the sea more than a mile from the shore at Brean sparked a big safety scare on Bank Holiday Monday.
The beach warden called Burnham-On-Sea Coastguards after the youngsters were spotted struggling through mud while paddling in the sea next to Brean Down.
Beach warden Mandy Furber told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “The two children were a mile out and were putting themselves in a lot of danger by wading out across the mud to reach the sea.”
“Despite several attempts to call them back, they did not respond, and were in a dangerous part of the beach.”
“Their mother, who was visiting from London, said she was unaware of the danger and felt the children were fine, even though there are many beach safety warning signs and leaflets are handed out to visitors.”
“A member of the public went out to reach them and bring them back and the Coastguards were stood down, but it could have been serious. They could have got stuck on an incoming tide and we are keen to raise safety awareness.”
A Burnham-On-Sea Coastguard spokesman added: “Our team was asked to respond to a call from the Brean beach warden. There were two children quite far out by the tideline who were causing concern. The beach warden, after being unable to hail them, spoke to the parents, who were probably unaware of the dangers their children faced and said they were OK.”
“We were tasked to give the beach warden some support and explain the dangers of the beach, since sometimes coming from a different perspective this can diffuse the situation and bring about a quick and friendly end to the incident. When we arrived on station we spoke to our Milford Haven Coastguard Operations Room and were informed that the family had left the beach and we could stand down.”
“Please remember if you visit the beach, the wardens and lifeguards are there for your safety and will help if you need it. If you are approached by them please listen for any instruction as it will be for safety or guidance.”
Pictured: The children seen paddling far out on Brean beach on Monday
