Falmouth coastguard is warning people to keep clear of the water during storm conditions after three people went for a night time swim at Pendennis Point on Friday.

The warning follows a weekend during which six people died around the UK, including a father swept off the rocks at Newquay, while his two year-old daughter remains in a critical condition.

The coastguard's rescue team was contacted by the police following a report that three people were swimming at the point, with a member of the public concerned due to the large swell, a strong wind, and the fact it was already dark.

A coastguard spokesperson said: "Two team members were kitted up in water rescue gear, while one met up with the person that had called this incident in, who had initially not made themselves known to us.

"As a search was just beginning, the first informant was able to confirm that three persons had entered the water in swimming costumes and all three had now left the water. Safe and well."

The coastguard has now issued a warning, reminding people to be more aware of the sea's power, with one cubic metre of water weighing around one tonne, capable of knocking someone off their feet before dragging them back into the sea.

The organisation urged the public to stay away from areas where surging waves could sweep them from their feet, or hit rocks and cause a huge amount of spray, and asked people to be aware of tides and the dangers of being cut off.

It added that strong wind conditions will mean that the sea will reach higher levels than expected.

James Instance, of Falmouth coastguard, said: “What should be an enjoyable experience could so easily take a traumatic turn, so please do listen to warnings and stay at a safe distance from the water.”