Major rescue operation with diggers to save girl stuck under rocks on beach

Aberdovy Coastguard Rescue Team arrived at 3:19pm - but with high tide due at 8:31pm, the team were racing against the clock

By Maia Snow, World News Editor, Elizabeth Hunter

The rescuers using a digger to move the rocks

A girl got trapped under the rocks on the beach (Image: SWNS)

A major rescue operation was launched using diggers after a girl got stuck under massive rocks on a beach - as the tide came in.

Dozens of rescuers and heavy lifting machinery was needed to reach the child young trapped amongst stone 'armour' on Tywyn beach in Gwynedd, Wales.

Aberdovy Coastguard Rescue Team arrived at 3.19pm on Sunday (April 21) - but with high tide due at 8.31pm, the team were racing against the clock.

Contractors brought in lifting machinery, including a large digger, as a last resort.

A coordinated three-hour effort, led by the Mid and North Wales Coastguard officer, freed the girl in a "very delicate operation," as her parents watched in terror.

Rescuers gathered around the rocks

Rescuers had to use a digger to get her out (Image: SWNS)

Also attending the incident were Barmouth Coastguard Rescue, Tywyn Fire Station, North Wales Police, Welsh Ambulance Service, Gwynedd Maritime Service and Wales Air Ambulance.

In a statement on social media, a coastguard rescue officer said: "It was a last resort as moving those rocks, some approx 3 tonnes, could cause other problems.

Emergency services gathered on the beach

A huge team of emergency services headed to the beach (Image: SWNS)

''The main concern was the incoming tide.

"A very delicate operation with the tide not on our side. However, teamwork prevailed and the rescue proved successful and the child was recovered safe and well."

"Please remember. As much as rock climbing can be fun, they are fraught with danger. Please take care."

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