A major rescue operation was launched in the early hours after “shouts for help” were heard from a river. Emergency services were called to the Conwy River, before a casualty was spotted drifting in the water towards the sea.

RNLI volunteers, coastguard officers, police and paramedics were all alerted to the incident at around 2.30am on Monday, April 20.

A Conwy Lifeboat team spokesperson said the coastguard had received a report of somebody shouting for help near the lifeboat station.

They said: “Our inshore lifeboat, Enid and John Hislop, was launched without delay to begin a search of the river and harbour area. A casualty was quickly located in the water near the Deganwy Hotel, having drifted with the tide.

“A huge thank you to Mike from Deganwy Marina. They were first on scene and helped locate the casualty, saving valuable time and playing a crucial role in the successful outcome.

“The casualty was recovered from the water and taken back to the lifeboat station without delay, where they were immediately warmed and given casualty care by our crew before being handed over to the ambulance service for onward care.”

The spokesperson added: “This was a multi-agency response involving Llandudno Coastguard Rescue Team, North Wales Police and the Welsh Ambulance Service. We thank them for their support.” Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox

They added: “We would also like to extend a big thank you to our volunteer crew for an excellent turnout at that time of the morning.

“Boat crew Phil, Sue and Ben, alongside a strong shore crew response, provided essential casualty care.

“Special thanks to medics Lydia and Matt, along with Steve and Lucy, plus all shore crew, the tractor driver and the Launch Authority, who all played a vital role in helping achieve a positive outcome.”

Conwy Lifeboat also thanked members of the public who raised the alarm, adding: “If you see or hear anyone in danger along our coastline, please call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.” Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now