COASTGUARD crews were rushed off their feet helping a string of casualties as thousands lined Southend’s beaches to make the most of the scorching heatwave.

Daytrippers packed the beaches today in sweltering temperatures putting pressure on Coastguard and volunteer lifeboat teams.

Seventeen people suffered cuts to their feet and legs after walking over “broken shells” on Chalkwell beach.

Southend Coastguard reported a “growing” casualty list as the day went on.

In total, Southend Coastguard and the East of England Ambulance service treated 17 people for cuts, with one person being moved to hospital for further treatment.

Two people were also stranded at the Mulberry Harbour and were stuck on an isolated sandbank.

Echo:

Busy - sunseekers flocked to the beach yesterday

The alert was raised by an off duty RNLI Southend lifeboat crew member, who watched the danger unfold whilst working on scaffolding near the seafront at Thorpe Bay.

The crew member quickly called 999 to get help for the pair.

The RNLI Southend hovercraft was launched to help the pair who were by then chest deep in water and struggling against the incoming tide, after attempting to try and make their own way back.

A heroic jet-skier was thankfully able to bring them safely to shore, where they were met by the Southend Coastguard team members who checked to see if they needed any medical attention.

The Southend hovercraft then did a sweep of the Mulberry Harbour area to make sure there were no other casualties stranded at sea.

A spokesman for Southend Coastguard said: “We would advise the wearing of some form of foot protection when venturing onto the mudflats and sea at the Crowstone in Westcliff.

“We also ask that you take a short amount of time to go online and check the tide times before setting out for the coast and read local hazard signage. This information is available at a number of places along the shoreline, the local pier and foreshore offices, on the internet and other locations.

“Should you see anyone in trouble on or near the coast, don’t hesitate to dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.”

Paul Thompson, owner of Pebbles One, in Marine Parade, said the continued closure of seafront fountains was an issue.

He said: “One thing I will say is that there have been hundreds of complaints that the fountains aren’t switched on.

“With the record number of call-outs for the Coastguard related to people getting stuck on the mudflats or being hurt, I think if these were on it would largely reduce the problem.

“There are people on the beach, in the sea and all over really, but everyone seems to be sticking to social distancing.”

Colin Oliver, from Oliver’s on the Beach, said: “It has been quite busy all along the seafront, but especially at the other end towards Pebbles One where the car parks are open.

“Our business hasn’t been quite as manic with the barrier still outside, it means nobody can park in front of us when they visit. With it being promised they’ll come down next week, I expect it will pick up then.”