Teenage boy rescued after being swept out to sea in Paignton
A lifeboat, two Coastguard rescue teams and a helicopter were sent to save the 13-year-old yesterday
A teenage boy has been taken to hospital after being swept out to sea by strong winds in Paignton.
The 13-year-old was found holding onto a 5 knot marker off Preston Sands yesterday (4 May).
A lifeboat, two Coastguard rescue teams and a helicopter - that was training in the area at the time - were sent to save him, before he was handed over to paramedics.
Torbay Coastguard Rescue Team said:
"Tasked by Solent Coastguard - Operations Centre to attend Preston Sands after a teenage boy had been swept out on his paddle-board due to a strong off-shore wind.
"The boy was holding onto a 5 knot marker and was in the sea for approximately 20 minutes.
"RNLI Torbay, Berry Head Coastguard and Coastguard Helicopter - Rescue 187 also attended. Rescue 187 winched the casualty off the 5 knot marker and landed on Preston Sands.
"The casualty was transferred to South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust and transferred to hospital by land."
Torbay Coastguard say if you are planning on entering the water, to check the weather, tide times and wind conditions beforehand.
They also say if you are planning of wild swimming, please leave a note with your belongings to prevent a potential search and consider using a swimming buoy.
In a coastal emergency dial 999 to request Coastguard.