Boys rescued after becoming stranded on island

The boys had gone to the island off Halton Road, Skerton, near Lancaster, during a period of low water.

But when the tide came in, they found themselves marooned.

The fire service was called shortly after 1.20pm today and two crews from Lancaster attended.

They contacted the boys via mobile phone before swift water rescue technicians used an inflatable rescue sled to get to the island and rescue the boys.

They were said to be a little shaken, but safe and well.

A fire service spokesman said: “This event ended safely, in no small part due to the boys having a mobile phone so that they could raise the alarm, but also because they did not attempt to wade back through the deep water.

“Flowing water, no matter how slow it appears to be running, should never be underestimated. As spring approaches and more people are drawn to enter the water, significant caution should always be exercised.”