Four children rescued after being spotted ‘up to their necks in water’ in Essex

Four children have been rescued after they were spotted "up to their necks in water and waving for help" on the Essex coast.

The group were trying to make their way back to shore in Southend when they suddenly realised the sea levels had risen too high.

HM Coastguard rescued the children in a hovercraft and they were taken to hospital with onset hypothermia.

They are now recovering at home.

In a Facebook post, the coastguard said the children "attempted to make their way back to shore but the water was too deep and caught them unawares and at one point were observed up to their necks in water and waving for help."

The children had been walking along a harbour in the area, prompting a warning from the rescue body not to take any chances at low tide.

"Do not walk out to any man made hazards or structures at low tide you may see in the 'near or far' distance off Southend, you will put your and your families lives at risk."

It added: “Cold water can be silent and deadly. Even on the warmest of days. It kills."

The post added: "We wish the four casualties a quick recovery.”