Two men were left red-faced yesterday when they became stranded off-shore on an inflatable toy.

Southend RNLI Inshore Lifeboat and Southend Coastguards went to the assistance of the two men shortly after 4pm.

Tim Smith, Coastguards watch officer said: "Two lads in their 20s were on an inflatable toy waving for help near the Cliffs Pavilion. We went out and brought them ashore. Luckily they weren't injured.

"These toys are not meant to be used off shore. They are meant for children and when used people must make sure they are secured with a long line so they don't drift off."

Published Tuesday, July 1, 2003

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