A huge rescue operation unfolded under the cover of darkness near Lopwell Dam last night (12 April).
The rescue was entirely led by members of the public with a significant number of vehicles and spectators gathering at the scene as word spread.
The three vehicles became stranded in the middle of the estuary near Maristow Quay and were completely submerged at high tide.
The vehicles submerged in the River Tavy. © Lee Crocker / Plymouth Plus
HM Coastguard rescue teams Plymouth and Tamar rushed to the incident to provide safety advice and ensure the welfare of those on scene.
A spokesperson for HM Coastguard told Plymouth Plus:
"HM Coastguard have been responding to an incident involving multiple vehicles stuck in mud at the River Tavy, Maristow Quay in Plymouth.
"Alerted shortly before 11.30pm on Saturday 12 April, coastguard rescue teams from Plymouth and Tamar were tasked to provide safety advice and ensure the welfare of those on scene.
"All vehicles were safely recovered."
The River Tavy and Tamar estuary has statutory protection as a site of special scientific interest.
A local has told Plymouth Plus that the Environment Agency are now investigating potential water pollution caused by oil and fuel leaking from the vehicles.
There is also a police sign at the river access point saying that it is unsuitable for motor vehicles.
Plymouth Plus has contacted the Environment Agency and Devon and Cornwall Police for comment.
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