NEW Quay lifeboat has this morning plucked the crew of an ocean rowing boat to safety after they capsized in heavy seas 18 miles north west of the RNLI station.

The lifeboat was launched at 8.15am following a distress call from the boat’s four-person crew who found themselves caught in Storm Arwen.

It is understood they were travelling from Ireland to Aberystwyth in a training exercise to prepare for a trans-Atlantic crossing next year.

Barmouth RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat was first to be tasked in north-westerly gale force winds of over 30mph and gusting over 50mph.

As the stricken rowing boat drifted southwards, New Quay’s Mersey-class lifeboat, the Frank and Lena of Stourbridge, with six volunteer crew members on board, was also called in.

First to arrive on scene was the Coastguard rescue helicopter who placed their winchman on board the vessel to assess the casualties.

It was decided to airlift one person with head injuries directly to hospital.

Daniel Potter, New Quay RNLI’s Coxswain said: “We made good speed heading north in gale force winds and rough sea conditions. We located the vessel and Barmouth lifeboat was already on scene. We got alongside and pulled the three casualties out of the water and provided casualty care. We then headed back to New Quay where the casualties received medical attention.

“It was a great outcome in difficult conditions and a good example of lifeboats and the Coastguard working together in life threatening situations.”

The lifeboat arrived back in New Quay at 11.35am and, having been washed down and refuelled, was ready for service again by 12.30pm.