Windsurfer guided back to shore after storm ordeal

The windsurfer eventually got back to shore safely to be met by rescue crews

Rescue teams were called to help a windsurfer who got into difficulty off the coast of Wirral during high winds from Storm Floris.

RNLI New Brighton and the coastguard were called to reports of a missing windsurfer who had last been seen struggling to hold onto his board in Leasowe Bay on Monday night.

The crews scanned the shoreline and out to sea with the lifeboat "navigating very strong winds and rough sea conditions", Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team said.

The man, who had been struggling for more than an hour, managed to safely reach land with the help of the wind direction and an incoming tide, where he was met by the coastguard who helped him back to his vehicle.

Crews from HM Coastguard and RNLI attended Leasowe Bay, Wirral

The coastguard has issued safety guidance about kite and windsurfing

Wirral Coastguard had warned people to stay away from the coast due to the storm, and the team put out renewed advice after the call-out.

"We understand kitesurfing and windsurfing are exciting watersports, involving factors such as speed, kite lines, wind and rights of way," a representative said.

"Before participating in any kitesport we recommended getting professional tuition from a qualified instructor.

"Without the correct instruction, kitesurfing can be a dangerous sport."

In a post on Facebook they also recommended always checking the tide times, always go out with a buddy, wearing appropriate clothing and never going further out than a distance you can comfortably swim back from.