Lifeboat launched after ‘mysterious light’ spotted in water off Aberavon beach

Port Talbot’s inshore lifeboat was launched in rough seas last night (Sunday 9 October) after a ‘mysterious light’ was spotted in the water just 300 metres from the shore line at Aberavon beach.

Due to the high water and surf conditions at the time, the volunteer lifeboat crew launched Port Talbot’s D class lifeboat from the River Afan.

Once launched, the RNLI crew were guided by the Port Talbot Coastguard unit to the location of the flashing light.

Weather conditions at the time were challenging, visibility was reduced due to the darkness and rain and there were very strong winds.

After a short period of searching a glow stick was recovered from the sea with nothing attached. A further search was carried out with nothing else was found.

Port Talbot RNLI’s Helm David Rees said: “It was a challenging shout due to the weather conditions but there was a good outcome. I would like to thank the caller for their vigilance.

“It is great to see that the public know the importance of raising the alarm, even though on this occasion it turned out to be a false alarm with good intent.

“If you find yourself in difficulty at the coast, or see someone else in danger, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

(Lead image: RNLI / Kirstee David)