PEOPLE planning trips to Wirral's coastline over the Easter Bank Holiday are urged to be 'extra careful' and ensure they check tide times.

The RNLI advice follows a nationwide study that showed up to 10 million people in the UK may have had some experience of being cut off by an incoming tide when visiting the coast.

The lifesaving charity teamed up with Bangor University last year as part of a project to understand people’s knowledge of the tide.

Researchers spoke to people who have experienced tidal cut-offs to explore some of the reasons why they get into trouble.

RNLI statistics for Wales and the North West show people getting cut off by the tide caused almost 10% of all lifeboat launches over the last decade – more than double the UK average.

The charity is calling on people to be extra careful if visiting the coast over the Easter weekend.

The university commissioned a marine social scientist to unpick people's awareness of tides, with a view to improving tidal knowledge through new public campaigns and education.

Chris Cousens, RNLI water safety lead added: "We expect this weekend to be busy on the coast, but with higher than normal spring tides forecast this weekend, areas affected by tidal cut-off may be cut off faster than normal, and other areas not normally known for tidal cut off may see incidents in the coming days.

"Anyone heading to the coast is reminded of the importance of checking the tide times and ensuring they have enough time to return if they decide to venture further along the beach.

"It's hard to imagine how walking can turn out to be such a dangerous activity, this is why it’s important to always check the tide times at the start of your day, keep an eye out for the incoming tide and leave enough time to return safely.

"It's also vital to always carry a means of calling for help. If in doubt seek local advice."

Dr Liz Morris-Webb, researcher and marine social scientist at Bangor University said: "The results of our initial survey show just how much the public misunderstand the tide, but also how even those with experience and knowledge of the coast can easily get into trouble if underprepared or distracted.

"Many respondents who reported being cut off by the tide wanted to send a message to others, especially how quickly the tide can change and become very dangerous."