RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew were called out to help a “struggling” kite surfer in New Brighton.

Team members were called out at 2pm on Monday (February 5) after Holyhead Coastguard Control Room had received several 999 calls reporting a kite surfer in difficulty.

The kite surfer was 400 metres offshore from Portland Slipway in New Brighton.

New Brighton lifeboat crew were tasked to assist the kite surfer who was struggling to self-recover.

A spokesperson for Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team said: “Thankfully, an off duty member of New Brighton RNLI quickly confirmed the owner of the kite was safely back ashore. The kite had blown out to sea with the strong offshore wind. The kite was safely recovered by the Lifeboat and brought back ashore.”

RNLI New Brighton Lifeboat Station added: “Thankfully, the kite surfer was able to self-recover shortly afterwards. The lifeboat crew continued to launch to recover the kit, which was floating on the river in a cross shore wind and a potential hazard to shipping, due to where it was located.

“If you see someone in distress on the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Always carry a means of communication with you whilst out on the water and wear a life jacket.”