19 Chinese Workers Drowned off Lancashire

A group picking cockles in Morecambe Bay was reported cut off by the sea. Rescue teams, including police, Coast Guard, and mountain rescue with dogs, responded quickly. Despite challenging conditions, including cold and darkness, the search continued with the help of an RAF helicopter. The group, possibly trapped by mud, faced treacherous conditions as the tide rose rapidly. As time passed, the death toll increased, and the search persisted to ensure everyone was accounted for.

How far offshore were the individuals thought to be?

What is the significance of the tide in this rescue operation?