A lifeboat crew was drafted in to help transport medics to Mersea Island after a woman went into labour as high tide cut off the island from the mainland.

West Mersea Lifeboat Station received the call on Wednesday after a woman went into labour on Mersea Island.

The lifeboat crew was mobilised to transport paramedics onto the island at high tide.

However, the lifeboat was eventually stood down when an air ambulance and first responders arrived on the scene and were able to safely deliver a baby girl.

West Mersea Lifeboat Station RNLI sent its congratulations to the family on Facebook.

Mersea Island can end up being cut off at high tide, when vehicles are unable to cross the flooded Strood road to the mainland.

When the tide water covers the Strood, it can be dangerous for land vehicles to attempt the journey across the causeway.