PEOPLE are being warned to check the tides after two people had to be rescued this afternoon (Wednesday, April 30).

Humber Coastguard received a 999 call just after 3pm from a member of the public who reported the pair were cut off by the tide at Saltwick Nab, Whitby.

Whitby Coastguard Rescue Team, the Whitby RNLI lifeboat and the search and rescue helicopter from RAF Leconfield were alerted.

On arrival, they found two people trying to climb up the cliff to escape the rising water.

Both were winched on board the helicopter and taken to the top of the cliff where they were met by Coastguard Rescue Officers. They were uninjured.

Mike Green, Watch Manager at Humber Coastguard, said: “We always advise people to check the weather and tidal conditions before setting out.

"You need to consider whether you could end up cut off by the incoming tide. Also, please don’t attempt to climb cliffs as a short cut back to the top, as you could hurt yourself in the process.

“If you are in trouble, or spot someone else in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”