Caution has been urged to those visiting our shorelines after volunteers from Felixstowe Coastguard were called out 21 times during July.

In general, HM Coastguard has seen a huge rise in call outs this year and they are still expecting it to get busier as more people flock to our beaches over the summer.

Director of HM Coastguard Claire Hughes said: "Never, ever think it won't happen to you. We've heard stories from so many people, some of whom know their coastlines and tide times well, who've been out for walks or who are strong swimmers and experts in their watersports who have found themselves suddenly needing help because something has changed.

"Regardless of how well you know the coast, or how experienced you are in your chosen sport, the sea can still catch you out, the cliffs can prove treacherous and even a momentary lapse of concentration can put you in difficulty.

"We will always respond to those in need but all we ask is that you think twice about what you do and where you go."

Felixstowe Coastguard reported how it had attended multiple jobs ranging from, casualty evacuations, broken bones, investigations, incidents involving vessels. Possible swimmers in distress and missing people.

The Carr Road based crew also assisted, and have been assisted, by Suffolk Constabulary, East of England Ambulance Service, RNLI Harwich Lifeboat, NCI Felixstowe, Felixstowe Coast Patrol, Holbrook Coastguard, Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service and many more.

A spokesperson said: "The team would like to thank these organisations for their help with certain and multiple incidents."

The crews deal in mud, tidal rivers, beach shoreline and coast, so in an emergency call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.