Helicopter called in as teenager injured after jumping into sea from cliffs at Aberporth

In a multi-agency response, both Cardigan lifeboats, the HM Coastguard rescue helicopter from Caernarfon, along with Cardigan and New Quay Coastguard Rescue Teams, the Aberporth RNLI lifeguards and Welsh Ambulance Service were all called to the incident at around 6pm.

It is understood a 16-year-old had jumped into the water from cliffs at Ogof y Goron.

When the lifeboat crews reached the scene, he was on rocks and was initially attended to by the RNLI lifeguards from Aberporth beach.

The teenager was then treated by the paramedic helicopter winchman as it was feared he might have suffered spinal injuries before finally being flown to Morriston Hospital at Swansea by the Coastguard. His condition is not known.

Both Cardigan lifeboats returned to their Poppitt Sands station by 8.35pm and a spokesperson said: “There was fantastic co-operation between the various agencies to get the best possible outcome.”

A Coastguard spokesperson highlighted the dangers of tombstoning - jumping or diving from a height into water - and said: “There are a number of factors that can make tombstoning highly dangerous. It is important to understand that it is an unpredictable activity, as there are dangers that might not be clear at first glance.

“Water depth alters with the tide; the water may be shallower than it seems.

“Submerged objects like rocks may not be visible; they can cause serious injury if you jump onto them.

“The shock of cold water may make it difficult to swim while strong currents can rapidly sweep people away.

“Think before you jump: don't let alcohol, drugs or peer pressure affect your judgement; even if you’re jumping safely, children may be watching and try to copy your actions. Don't jump into the unknown.