At 1.27pm on Monday (2 January), HM Coastguard tasked the crew of Exmouth RNLI inshore lifeboat D-805 George Bearman II to a report of three walkers trapped by the tide between Orcombe Point and Sandy Bay, Exmouth.

The volunteer lifesavers launched at 1.38pm and made their way to the location.

A short time later the RNLI volunteers made contact with the three walkers and they were transferred to the safety of Exmouth Lifeboat Station at 2.05pm.

No one was injured or required medical attention.

Exmouth RNLI Inshore Lifeboat Helm Harry Griffin said: "RNLI advice for coastal walkers is to always check the local tide times before embarking.

"Tide times vary from day to day – a beach that was clear yesterday at 5pm may be covered in sea at the same time today.

"Make sure you have a means of communication and, if you find yourself in difficulty, always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

"We were glad to give assistance and that this shout had a positive outcome."