Major rescue after 'hoax' flares were launched

A MAJOR rescue effort was launched along the River Dee after three distress flares were launched.

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However after a search, it was found to be a “malicious” hoax.

The Coastguard received about a dozen calls around 10.55pm from members of the public and North Wales and Merseyside Police.

It came after maritime red distress flares were launched from the area of the Duke of Lancaster ship, which is docked at Llanerch-y-Mor in Flintshire.