RNLI lifeguards in Newquay rescued a family of four on kayaks and paddle boards after they began drifting out to sea on Monday afternoon.

Lifeguards at Tolcarne beach used a rescue water craft went to save the family at around 4pm after cross shore winds blew them half a mile from the nearby harbour.

Although the family had been told to stay in the harbour when originally renting the equipment, winds and a choppy swell caused them problems, and as they drifted into the bay they put their paddles in the air and called for help.

Lifeguards Anthony Middleton, George Tickner and William Jarvis picked up the family two-by-two and returned them to the shore safely and without injury.

Senior lifeguard William said: "We managed to launch extremely quickly yesterday and we were able to tackle the challenging conditions of the day allowing us to rescue the family safely and professionally.

"The family did the right thing by signalling for help as soon as they were in difficulty, as it allowed us to reach them as fast as possible.

"When entering the sea with water sports equipment it’s important to check the conditions before hand and talk to the lifeguards if you have any queries."