4 September 2010 Last updated at 04:22 ET

Gower surfers rescue man on homemade raft

A 23-year-old man was rescued by two surfers after his homemade raft was blown out to sea.

Swansea Coastguard received emergency calls at 1600 BST on Friday saying the man was drifting out to sea at Llangenith beach, Gower.

Rhossili coastguards, Burry Port RNLI lifeboat and the rescue helicopter from RAF Chivenor were all scrambled.

The man, who was not wearing a lifejacket, was pulled onto a surfboard and brought back to the shore.

Coastguards have warned the public not to take unnecessary risks when on the coast.

COASTGUARD ADVICE

• Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained
• Check weather and tides
• Wear a lifejacket
• Avoid alcohol
• Keep in touch

• Maritime and Coastguard Agency

David Jones, watch manager at Swansea Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre, said: "The casualty was fortunate to be recovered quickly by two surfers in the area.

"They managed to get him onto their board and get him ashore, and abandoned the raft."

The man was met by coastguard officers and was found to suffering initially from shock and received medical advice from the team, but he did not want to go to hospital.

Mr Jones said: "We are pleased that the man concerned is safe and well, our primary concern is always the safety of life but we must stress how important it is to not take unnecessary risks and putting yourself and others in danger.

"You should always be prepared and know the local weather conditions and tides and always wear a lifejacket."

For more advice on how to stay safe visit the MCA website www.mcga.gov.uk or call your local Coastguard station.