Rescue and emergency services rushed to action at Tenby harbour on Friday (September 18) evening after a child got into difficulty in the water off the pier, after being hit by a large wave.

Members of Tenby’s RNLI inshore lifeboat crew were tasked shortly after 5.30 pm t the scene after after one of the crew had spotted the child in difficulty.

The crew member pulled the child out, whilst alerting other crew members that were nearby.

She was then taken to the Inshore lifeboat station, where casualty care was started and an ambulance was requested.

They were soon joined by Police and RNLI lifeguards who had been in the area and offered their assistance.

Members of Tenby Coastguard Rescue Team were also asked to attend and began checking other swimmers that had also been in the water.

Within minutes, a Welsh Ambulance Service Community First Responder arrived and worked alongside the lifeboat crew and lifeguards with the main casualty, who luckily, apart from being very cold and swallowing some water, had escaped with just minor scrapes and bruises.

A short time later, Paramedics arrived and after a thorough examination and after she was warmed up, she was released to her very relieved mum.

Meanwhile, the remaining swimmers were warmed up and checked over by Tenby and Saundersfoot Community First Responders, assisted by Coastguards, before being released to their parents.

Once all children were safe and well with their parents, all units stood down.

Agencies have relayed the message this year about the dangers of the water at areas such as Tenby harbour.

Authorities are worried that people – particularly young people – have been jumping in without thinking of the potential dangers under the water.

There is also a significant danger from vessel movements within the harbour, said Chris Salisbury, Harbourmaster at Tenby.

“We would like both young people and parents to understand how the times have changed with regards to jumping,” said Chris.

“With so many boats coming in and out of the harbour, jumping is inherently dangerous.”

A large message board has now been set up in the harbour area as a reminder that the activity is not safe.

Jeremy Trew from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said they are ‘very concerned’ about the situation.

“Many members of the public are ignoring the dangers of moving boats, underwater obstruction and shallow waters,” said Jeremy, station manager in the Community Safety Department.

“We hope people will think about the dangers and how they use our beaches and harbours.”

Pembrokeshire County Council’s youth team are also concerned about the issue. Kelly Davies from the targeted youth team, said: “We hope this visual representation will deter people from taking risks.

“The agencies involved are keen to support Tenby Harbour in keeping people safe and hopefully provide a clear message to all.”