A search and rescue operation is underway after a group, including children, is believed to have become trapped by a rising tide at an Essex beach. Reports say the incident occurred on Wednesday evening, with the group thought to have walked out to a sandbank near the holiday beach at about 5:30pm. As the tide rose, the group allegedly became cut off, prompting emergency response. The available reporting describes the event as involving a family unit and notes that the circumstances leading to the group being on the sandbank are not fully confirmed, including whether they deliberately went out or were affected by rapidly changing conditions near the shore. Authorities continue searching and responding as they assess the situation and coordinate help for those believed to be affected. Details about the number of people involved, their condition, and the precise location on the beach are not provided in the excerpts.