Young woman swept into sea in Newquay as Storm Eunice arrived
The coastguard has issued a warning after she was knocked off the wall at Towan Beach
Coastguards have issued a warning after a young woman was swept into the sea at Newquay as Storm Eunice arrived.
She was rescued by onlookers after being knocked off the wall at Towan Beach on Thursday (17th February)
Crews have called it a lucky escape and are urging people to stay away from the waters edge as Storm Franklin sweeps through.
Jonathan Mustard is a Search and Rescue Manager at HM Coastguard.
He posted on Twitter: "As Storm Eunice subsides, these photos from Newquay show the horrific moment, fun nearly turns into tragedy.
"Fortunately this girl was recovered from the water by onlookers before she was pulled out by the sea.
"We urge people not to take risks and keep away from the waters edge."
It comes after HM Coastguard and Cornwall Council issued a joint plea for people to stay away from the coast in the stormy weather.
There have been multiple reports of people at the waterline taking pictures of the waves, and even of families standing by the surf line with their children.
In a 'major incident' briefing during Storm Eunice on Friday, Cornwall Council said reports of young people climbing sea walls and even swimming in the sea had been received.
A spokesperson said: "With reports of young people climbing onto sea walls and people swimming in the sea, the Coastguard and Police are imploring people to stay away from coastal areas and seafronts – and to not put their own or rescuers lives at risk".
HM Coastguard Tactical Commander Ben Hambling said: “The reports we are receiving are absolutely terrifying. In these conditions all it takes is one wave.
“A dramatic photograph or selfie is not worth risking your life for and those who are going to the coast to take pictures are also putting our teams at risk.
“We are urging people in the strongest possible terms to stay away from the coast."
If you do get into trouble or believe anybody to be in difficulty at the coast or at sea, please call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.