A FATHER and three children had to wade to shore through waist-deep water after being cut off by the tide at Blackpool.

The family, from Carlisle, became trapped on a sand bank just north of North Pier after the tide came in from behind them last Thursday, August 16.

Blackpool lifeboat station received a report at around 7.30pm and crew members went out to the scene to ensure the family were able to make their way safely to the steps at Cocker Square.

The father, with one child on his shoulders and one holding either hand, managed to wade through waist-deep water to safety.

Keith Horrocks, mechanic at Blackpool Lifeboat Station, said that people are often surprised at how fast the tide comes in behind them.

He said that the tide time changes by about an hour every day and people should be particularly alert at night when the beach patrols are not present.

"People should be vigilant, especially at that time of night when the tide floods. They should be aware of when the tide is coming around the back of them," he said.