Strong winds led to two rescues on Falmouth beaches within 15 minutes of each other yesterday as members of the public waded in to help.

Two paddleboarders first found themselves in distress at Swanpool just after 2pm yesterday.

Falmouth Coastguard Rescue Team was called while already out on patrol, but as they arrived a team member from the beach's watersports centre Elemental UK had already paddled out to the pair and taken them to the safety of the rocks.

They were met by the coastguard volunteers, with a spokesperson saying afterwards: "The two casualties were checked over and passed some safety advice, primarily about paddle boarding in a strong offshore wind."

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The team then carried on their patrol as far as Maenporth - where, as soon as we arrived, they were alerted to a couple who had become cut off by the tide on the north side of the beach.

Water safety equipment was used and the pair were escorted back to the beach, where staff from the cafe Life's a Beach handed out refreshments to the rescuers.

"Thanks to Life's a Bach Maenporth for the refreshments," said the coastguard spokesperson, who added: "While we were out, we noted several paddle boarders really struggling in the wind. Please check the conditions before you go out."

If you spot anyone in trouble on the coast dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.