A dramatic rescue was launched after children drifted out to sea on inflatable toys during the busiest weekend of the year for coastguards.
As the second day of Southend Airshow geared up, the town's coastguard and two RNLI lifeboats were scrambled to help the youngsters, reported to be in difficulties on three inflatables in the estuary.
As the children drifted back to the shore under the watchful eye of rescue crews, they were given stern warnings before being reunited with their parents.
Three people were also helped to safety by the lifeboat and coastguard after getting into trouble off Shoebury at 4pm.
The inshore lifeboat had earlier towed a speed boat to safety after it got into difficulties just after 10.30am.
Published Tuesday June 1, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article