BURNHAM-on-Sea Coastguard has warned residents to be safe on the beach after they were called to rescue a woman stuck in the mud. 

Crews were called at 4.22pm on August 9 to Burnham Pier to assist the woman who strayed too far past the beach's warning flags and got stuck in the mud. 

A spokesman for Burnham Coastguard said: "When the red flags are up this means you shouldn't go beyond them as it is dangerous.

"In this case it is due to the soft sinking mud that can quickly trap a person.

"The beach landscape can change with every tide, and the hard standing can quickly give way to very soft mud.

"The person we found had only strayed a few yards beyond the warning flag and found herself unable to move.

"Stuck up to her ankles she was unable to move and so a mud team was dispatched to free her.

"Using the stretchers as platforms they quickly dug her feet out and got her to an awaiting paramedic who checked her over.

"After a brief check she was deemed to be fine and well and made her way off of the beach.

"Weston Coastguard were just arriving on scene in case extra mud techs were needed.

"This is a great example of why the warning flags are there.

"Please do not ignore them or think that it will be OK.

"Heed the warning signs, if you are unsure then speak to the Lifeguards or the Beach Wardens.

"If you do get stuck, spread your weight if possible, call 999 and ask for the Coastguards, shout and wave to attract attention of passers by but do not let them attempt to rescue you as they may become stuck themselves."

 If you spot anyone in difficulty or danger along the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.