LIFEBOAT crews from New Quay and Aberystwyth were called out into stormy seas earlier today following reports of a person in the water.

Two crews from New Quay along with Aberystwyth RNLI and the coastguard rescue helicopter were called out in Storm Dudley on Wednesday morning.

Fortunately, the object in the water, which rescue crews said initially looked like a kayaker or paddleboarder, turned out to be a tree.

Simon Rigby, New Quay RNLI’s helm said: “We arrived on scene in Aberaeron and began our search.

“We were informed that the person in the water could be seen drifting in a northerly direction.

“After we began searching we spotted an object in the water which initially looked like a person with a kayak or paddleboard.

“As we approached it became apparent that the object was a tree.

“We spoke to the Coastguard teams on land with the first informant and they confirmed this is what they had seen.

“We informed the Coastguard and we were stood down and returned to station.”

Roger Couch, New Quay RNLI’s Lifeboat Operations Manager added: “This was a false alarm with good intent. If it had have been a person in the water it would have been critical to get there as fast as possible. The first informant did the right thing contacting the Coastguard. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

“Remember if you get into danger in the water, relax and float to give yourself time to recover before swimming to safety or calling for help. If you see someone else in danger, please call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

An amber warning for the whole of Wales with winds of up to 100mph has been issued for Friday as Storm Eunice is predicted to hit.

It comes as Wales is already being affected by Storm Dudley with a large part of the country covered by a separate yellow wind warning.

Lifesaving charity, the RNLI, is encouraging people to exercise extreme caution if visiting the shoreline, especially along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers.

RNLI Water Safety Lead Chris Cousens said: "The expected storms could make our seas treacherous, increasing the risk for those visiting the coast around the UK and Ireland.

"In a normal year around, 150 people lose their lives at the coast and we know that more than half of those never intended to be in the water. So, whether you are walking, running or cycling at the coast, please be extra responsible and avoid taking unnecessary risk or entering the water.

"In particular, we ask people to stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and cliff edges, check tide times before you go, take a phone with you, and call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if you or someone else is in trouble."

The RNLI’s key water safety advice is:

· Take care if walking near cliffs – be aware of ice and frost, know your route and keep dogs on a lead.

· Check weather forecasts and tide times daily.

· Take a fully charged phone.

· Check your equipment is in good working order.

· Be aware of the conditions and your capabilities.

· In an emergency call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.