Angler stuck in mud to his neck

The man was taken to hospital to be treated for hypothermia

An angler who became stuck in mud which rose up to his neck is being treated in hospital for hypothermia.

The 47-year-old was angling off the coast near Silverdale, Lancashire, when he got stuck on Sunday morning.

One of his friends made an emergency call to Liverpool Coastguard, who alerted Arnside and Morecambe rescue teams and Morecambe's RNLI hovercraft.

The man was rescued just after 1115 GMT and taken to the shore by hovercraft before being transferred to hospital.

'Traumatic experience'

The rescue took place in Morecambe Bay, which boasts the largest area of intertidal sand and mudflats in the UK.

It is well-known for its treacherous sands and fast-moving incoming tides.

Colin Brown, Liverpool Coastguard Watch Manager, said: "If it had not been for the swift response from the Arnside Coastguard Rescue team to this man, this incident could have had a different outcome.

"We are extremely pleased this man has survived this traumatic experience.

"We would like to remind people that when venturing out angling in unknown areas, it may be wise to obtain local information."