A family on holiday in the Penryn area found themselves in a sticky situation after they hired a boat - and then got stuck in the mud.

It led to Falmouth Coastguard Rescue Team being called, who were already at a job in Falmouth.

However, with the ambulance service handling the situation at marina in Falmouth, where a woman had fallen, the coastguards were immediately re-tasked to what was unfolding at Penryn River.

Falmouth Packet:

The family became stuck in the Penryn River. Photo: Steve Davey

The family of four had hired the boat for a gentle sail on the river, only to misjudge the tides.

A coastguard spokesperson said: "A family on holiday hired the vessel but unfortunately got caught out by the tide.

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"Specialist mud rescue technicians were deployed to check the welfare of the party.

"It was decided, given the weather and tidal situation to bring them back to shore."

Using rescue ropes and an inflatable dinghy, the family were brought to shore and back to safety.

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Coastguard Rescue Team carried out a mud rescue. Photo: Steve Davey

The hire boat company later went back to collect the boat, on the oncoming tide.

The coastguard spokesperson added: "If you’re out on the water, check the tides and keep an eye on the weather."

  • In an emergency on the coast, dial 999 and ask for Coastguard.