FOUR adults who became trapped by a rising tide were rescued yesterday.

The incident happened at Huntcliff, at Saltburn, on the east Cleveland coast, when the Redcar lifeboat was alerted by Tyne Tees Coastguard.

The boat was unable to get to the stranded people, because of a combination of wind and sea conditions.

Coastguards could not reach them from the top of the cliff, because of the overhanging cliff face and the danger of dislodging debris.

A Sea King RAF rescue helicopter was diverted from an operation at Flamborough Head, east Yorkshire coast, and winched the people to safety.

The four, a middle-aged couple from Stockport and some friends visiting from Germany, were not injured.

Dave Cammish, launching authority for Redcar lifeboat, appealed again for people walking beneath cliffs to take great care.

"One day we will not know in time to prevent a tragedy," he said.