Diver found safe after big search

A 49-year-old diver who got into difficulties diving off the Pembrokeshire coast has been found safe and well.

He disappeared at 1310 BST, and was found more than two hours later, having drifted for about six miles.

Four RNLI lifeboats and an RAF rescue helicopter took part in the search near Skomer Island.

The diver was spotted by the cross-channel ferry and picked up by helicopter.

The operation was co-ordinated by Milford Haven Coastguard, and the St David's RNLI all-weather and inshore lifeboats crews from Little Haven and Angle RNLI were all involved.

This incident highlights how far a person can be carried by tidal currents in a very short space of time”

A rescue helicopter from RAF Chivenor in Devon winched the diver out of the sea and landed at Withybush airfield.

Around half a dozen other boats assisted in the search, the coastguard said.

The diver, who was wearing a wetsuit and stability vest, was taken to Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest.

Bob Peel, Watch Manager at Milford Haven Coastguard, said: "We would like to thank all the private vessels that responded to the mayday relay broadcast.

"The dive boat was fully equipped and called the coastguard as soon as they realised they needed assistance.

"Thankfully, the diver was located and recovered without any ill effects. This incident highlights how far a person can be carried by tidal currents in a very short space of time."