A day out for a Street couple took a dramatic turn after their car nearly disappeared beneath the waves at Brean on Saturday.

Richard and Jane Roberts, of Street, parked their Renault Scenic on the sands to walk their dogs, but when they returned found that their electronic key fob would not work and they were unable to get back into the car.

"The key's power had run out, leaving our car locked, the tide approaching and us panicking," said Mrs Roberts.

"Nothing would open it, we were concerned we'd lose our car."

Fortunately, Brean's beach warden was nearby and he called on the help of the Burnham Area Rescue Boat (BARB), who arrived a few moments later.

One of the boats crew had a similar car and helped the couple to reactivate the fob.

"Much to our relief, this meant we were able to get back inside and drive it off the beach with just a few minutes to spare. It was certainly an eventful afternoon and Richard and I are hugely grateful to everyone who helped us."

The couple gave a donation to BARB for their assistance. BARB is a registered charity that operates two rescue hovercrafts and an inshore rescue boat.

Mark Newman, chairman of the Burnham and Area Rescue Boat, said: "Last year we saw several incidents along the coastline, with a boat and trailer were towed to safety at Brean, a car got stuck on the mudflats and a quad bike in difficulty on Burnham beach, and even a herd of cows at West Huntspill.

"We rely solely on donations to run its service – our annual running costs are over £30,000 and Unlike other rescue groups, no-one at BARB is paid – we are all volunteers.

"We're very grateful to the Roberts for their donation, which will be put toward rescues, training and maintaining our equipment."