RNLI figures reveal lifeboat launches across Wales this summer rocketed by 43% this year.

Statistics reveal RNLI lifeboats and lifeguards across Wales have been exceptionally busy, with RNLI lifeguards responding to 946 incidents and RNLI lifeboats launching 726 times.

Of the 31 lifeboat stations in Wales, 24 reported an increase in emergency calls with some experiencing dramatic rises.

Cardigan inshore lifeboat carried out 24 rescues this year, and New Quay’s inshore and all-weather boats launched to 18 incidents, three more than last year.

Local RNLI lifeguards also had a challenging summer and carried out some dramatic rescues.

Stuart Thompson, RNLI Lifeguard Manager for South Wales said: “The good weather that we have seen this summer has brought a huge number of visitors to our beaches in Wales, and the lifeguards have certainly had their hands full with a wide range of incidents. A lot of the work that we do is based around prevention, helping beach users to stay in the safest areas of the beach and out of danger.”

Colin Williams, RNLI Regional Operations Manager for Wales thanked the charity’s dedicated supporters and fundraisers.

He said: “Without their kind generosity and hard work we would not be able to equip and train our lifesavers or help so many people in trouble at sea.”