Three surfers were caught in a powerful rip tide on two separate occasions off Rhossili Beach in Gower, sparking an air and sea rescue.
The surfers got into trouble at around lunchtime on Saturday on a sunny day in Wales when a number of people had flocked to the coast to enjoy the brighter weather
At 1pm, Burry Port RNLI were paged by Milford Haven UK Coastguard with an immediate request to launch to help two surfers caught in a riptide and a strong easterly wind that was pushing them away from the safety of the beach. Just 10 minutes later, Mumbles and Tenby lifeboats along with a rescue helicopter were also on their way. You can get more Swansea and other story updates by subscribing to our newsletters here.
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Burry Port RNLI said on its social media: "Our Atlantic 85, 'The Misses Barrie' was on scene within 15 mins of launching, and as they entered Rhossili Bay, Rescue 187 was hovering over the casualties to direct our volunteer crew towards the two surfers. Both casualties were picked up by the Lifeboat, and then 187 landed on the Beach, the two casualties were landed and checked over by the paramedic.
"In all this activity, Rhossili UK CG Team were coordinating directions to the rescue craft, and kept a close vigil on the two drifting casualties."
As Burry Port Lifeboat headed back home the crew were then sent back to Rhossili, where another surfer appeared to be in difficulty in the same area.
The lifeboat service added: "Rescue 187 was on scene first and kept a watchful eye on the casualty, and guided our Atlantic 85 towards the surfer. The surfer casualty made it back to the beach safely, and all units were stood down. A busy weekend for all our Team."
Rhossili Coastguard also took to social media to share the incidents. Referring to the condition of the two surfers, it said: "Both were brought ashore cold and shocked. Both casualties, along with the paramedic from the helicopter, were taken in the coastguard vehicle back to our station to be checked over, given blankets and warmed up.
"Our thanks also to the off-duty doctor who assisted in their care. Thankfully, both did not need further treatment and were released from our care"
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