A GROUP of people and a dog were rescued on New Year's Eve after becoming stranded on an island in Wirral.

West Kirby’s D-class RNLI lifeboat was launched at 11.48am on Sunday, December 31 to offer assistance to a group of four people and a dog who had become stranded on Middle Eye of Hilbre Island, whilst walking.  

One of the party had become "seriously unwell" and they had become trapped by the incoming tide.

Wirral Globe: The dog that was strandedThe dog that was stranded (Image: RNLI West Kirby)

The RNLI crew arrived on board the station’s brand new lifeboat, funded by a local community appeal.

It was the first shout as helm for West Kirby RNLI volunteer Tom Clarke.

Wirral Globe: Tom ClarkeTom Clarke (Image: RNLI West Kirby)

A spokesperson for RNLI said: "The volunteer RNLI crew assessed the casualty and due to his condition returned him immediately to the shore to a waiting ambulance.

"They then returned to the Middle Eye to collect the remaining members of the party and the dog.

"The casualty was taken to hospital. 

"On return to shore, the volunteer crew were also asked to investigate reports of a windsurfer in trouble, but no assistance was required."