Children among group rescued from Solent fort walk
Isle of Wight Council had previously urged people not to take part this year
Last updated 12th Aug 2021
Seven people, including children, have been rescued after trying to walk to St. Helens Fort in the Solent.
Despite warnings not to, the group took part in the traditional low-tide crossing from the Isle of Wight.
Bembridge RNLI confirmed they were rescued this morning after getting in to difficulty.
Isle of Wight Council had previously urged people not to take part this year.
A spokesman for the Isle of Wight Safety Advisory Group said: "The fort walk is an informal event with no organiser that usually takes place over one or more suitable tides in the summer.
"Last year we asked locals not to attempt the walk, and most people respected that.
"This year, for safety, we again urge the fort walkers not to make the trip.
"Please do not put yourselves, volunteers and key workers at risk when we are already stretched by the coronavirus crisis.
"The only way to get to the fort is to cross a very narrow strip of shingle, and it would be impossible to do this safely except in very small numbers.
"Climbing around the fort itself would also be difficult while staying safe, and the shore and parking areas can become crowded.
"Given the thousands of people who have in the past turned up to this event, our clear advice to them is please, stay away this year, and enjoy one of the many safer beaches on the Island instead."