A video shows Southend's RNLI team rescuing 12 swimmers who were cut off by the tide last weekend.

The remarkable video, filmed by the crews, reveals how the RNLI rescued those were stranded off Southend's beaches.

A lifeboat was launched shortly after 6.45pm on Saturday August 1, with four beach-goers rescued within minutes.

The casualties had sustained cuts to their feet through walking on the mudflats.

While heading back to the shore, the crew noticed two other people struggling in the water with the rising tide and so they were also brought aboard and returned to safety.

The crew were then tasked with another report of people unable to get back to the shoreline due to cut feet, just off Southend Pier.

The RNLI say once volunteers were at the scene, it became apparent there were three groups in the same situation.

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A spokesman for Southend RNLI said: "With increasing numbers of people visiting the shore this weekend, we’d strongly recommend that anyone visiting a beach takes extra care.

"Make sure to check on weather conditions and tide time-tables as Southend has a large tidal range and poses a serious threat to people being cut off by the tide.

"Although we would recommend against walking out on the mud flats, if people cannot resist, it is also worth considering appropriate foot wear to protect your feet from oyster beds and other hidden sharp objects.

"If you do see anyone who may be in trouble, don’t hesitate to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."