A campervan was swept out to sea after getting trapped in the sands at a popular Wales beach, despite daring rescue efforts by jet skiers.
The incident happened at Traeth y Greigddu (Black Rock Sands), near Porthmadog, on Friday. Images and videos posted online show the motorhome being engulfed by the advancing sea at Black Rock Sands. Eyewitnesses reported that there was an attempt to save the campervan. The rescue bid was led by jet skiers who were attending a fundraising event by Colwyn PWC Riders, which amassed over £25,000 for charity, reports North Wales Live.
It wasn’t the first mishap of the day for the ill-fated motorhome. It had previously become stuck but was rescued with assistance from the vehicles of jet ski riders.
Unfortunately, the campervan found itself trapped again in the sand later that day. Once again people rallied around to help the stranded vehicle – with a witness saying there were around six jet skiers trying to help the owners.
They tried to tow the van to safety with a pick-up truck along with a 4×4 Land Rover Defender. One of those helping said: “We tried to move the camper a second time but it wouldn’t move, the wheels didn’t spin, they were stuck.
“We then tried a third time to retrieve the camper – attempting to drag it out with two vehicles but this time it was totally stuck. We were in danger of digging into the sand ourselves. Someone then called for the tractor, and the rest is history.”
Phil Butler, an admin on Abersoch Appreciation Page, said he wanted to set the record straight. He said: “A few people who weren’t even there, are saying, why did no one attempt to help, but some people certainly did.”
He added: “Even using two towing vehicles the camper would not move, so eventually it had to be left exactly where it was stuck. The incoming tide won the battle.”
Colwyn PWC Riders organised the event over the weekend which was attended by more than 100 riders from North Wales and further afield. A total of £25,163.97 was raised.
Funds raised will go to several worthy causes, including the RNLI and Mountain Rescue – both vital organisations dedicated to saving lives at sea and on land – as well as Macca’s Project and Elsie’s Story, two deeply meaningful community-led initiatives. .