Tenby’s RNLI all-weather lifeboat launched around 6.15 pm on Saturday after a report that four kayaks were overdue at Towy Boat Club, Llansteffan.

The kayaks had left Carmarthen around 10 am, intending to arrive at Towy Boat Club sometime in the afternoon, before paddling back to Carmarthen. When they failed to arrive by early evening, concerned family raised the alarm.

The volunteer crew launched into rough seas and made best speed towards the Towy Estuary. Other units already searching were Ferryside inshore rescue boat, Coastguard, Police and Fire and Rescue teams and a Search and Rescue helicopter had also been tasked.

As the lifeboat was passing Pendine, news came through that the casualties had been found near the railway bridge at Carmarthen. They were not in need of assistance and were safe.

The lifeboat was stood down and returned to station, arriving at 6.45 pm.