Teenagers had to be airlifted to safety

HM Coastguard operations centre Stornoway received a report from an off-duty coastguard officer, reporting three teenage boys cut off on a sand bar at Tong Sands by the rapidly incoming tide.

Coastguard Helicopter R948 airlifted the three teenagers and returned them to the hangar at Stornoway Airport, where they were reunited with family members.

Duty Officer S18B, Stornoway and Ness Coastguard Rescue Teams, Stornoway RNLI Lifeboat and Highland & Islands Police Division were also deployed during the rescue operation.

A spokesman for HMCG said there were no injuries other than the individuals being a little shaken up by the incident.

If you decide to “Stay Local” per the current Scottish Government guidelines and go to the coast this weekend, don’t put yourself at risk.

#BeBeachSafe and check the weather forecast and tidal information for your area at the dedicated website from the Met Office at: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/.../beach-forecast-and-tide.

Contact your nearest Coastguard Station and ask for advice on weather and tides for your area.

Carry a means of communication, so if something does happen, you can call for help.

Wear appropriate clothing.

In an Emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Please take care and look after each other, and have a happy and safe Easter Bank Holiday.