Two people and a dog rescued from Holy Island causeway

Berwick and Holy Island Coastguard Rescue Teams, along with Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, were sent to the scene after HM Coastguard received a 999 call at around 2.50pm.

The pair and their pet had been stranded by the rising tide after their car had lost power as they tried to cross to the mainland on an incoming tide.

When the teams arrived, the stranded pair had already started to walk back to the island. They were recovered safe and well from the water and taken to dry land.

Later, Holy Island Coastguard (@Holy_Island_CG) tweeted: 'It’s always nice to get a smile. Dog Arlow after his rescue from Holy Island causeway this afternoon.'

Ryan Douglas, senior maritime operations officer for HM Coastguard, said: "We would strongly recommend that people do not attempt to drive their vehicles on the causeway outside of the published safe crossing times. The speed and power of an incoming tide should not be underestimated, it will cause damage to property and is a serious risk to life.

"Before you start your journey plan ahead, check the weather and tide times and consider whether you could become cut off by the incoming tide, above all do not take any unnecessary risks.

"If people do find themselves in trouble or if they see someone who they think may be in trouble they should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

A fortnight ago, a couple spent more than four hours in the refuge box on Holy Island causeway in biting winds after their car was cut off by the tide.

HM Coastguard Northumberland posted this advice to motorists crossing the causeway: 'Please check safe crossing times and DO NOT attempt to cross outside of these. The safe crossing times are there for a reason!! Remember, in an emergency at sea or on the coast, or if you think someone may be in difficulty, ALWAYS call the COASTGUARD by dialling 999.'