Beachgoers get stuck in mud flats attempting to reach the sea in Weston-super-Mare

Weston Coastguard Rescue Team said it was called out 55 times on Wednesday

Dozens of beachgoers have been spotted getting stuck in mud flats trying to reach the sea in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset.

One onlooker said “over a hundred” people had made their way to the water during low tide but got into difficulty in the soft surface.

Pictures from the scene show one woman struggling through the sludge attempting to carry a small child back to the shore.

Members of the coastguard can be seen attempting to help revellers who had attempted to go for a swim on the hottest day of the year so far.

Weston Coastguard Rescue Team said in a tweet it had received 55 call outs on Wednesday, some of which dealt with those stuck in the mud.

“Incidents we’ve dealt with today...persons trying to reach the sea via mudflats, [they] realised the distance and gave up,” it read.

The rescue team has been called out to deal with people struggling on the mudflats at least 12 times in the past month.

It has previously warned those heading to the beach to remain vigilant.

“Our key safety messages at the moment are that if people travel to the coast to enjoy the hot weather they should check tide times, weather forecasts and local safety signage,” a spokesperson said last month.

“People should keep a close eye on their family and ensure they stay safe.

A woman attempts to carry a small child back to the shore (Nick Hayman / SWNS)

“Inflatables should only be used in safe areas such as Marine Lake and not in the sea.”

Thousands of Britons have been flocking to beaches and beauty spots across the UK to make the most of the ongoing heatwave.

The mercury hit 32.6C (90.6F) on Wednesday near London in the hottest day of 2020 so far, although forecasters say that record could be broken by the end of the week.

Health authorities have warned the most vulnerable to protect themselves amid the “exceptionally hot weather forecast this week”, with people being advised to stay cool and stay hydrated where possible.

Additional reporting by SWNS