A party of six campers, including two children and a puppy dog, were found by RNLI crew as they waved frantically on the beach at Tenby in the early hours of last Friday morning after escaping from the incoming tide as it washed over their makeshift camp in a cave. The group, from Neath and Gorseinon, a family of four with their 15-week-old Jack Russell called Sparky and two friends, arrived in Tenby the day before for a holiday, and spotted Bacon's Hole cave, beneath the western end of The Esplanade, where they promptly set up camp, erecting their tents and barbecue equipment. Disaster struck in the early hours of Friday morning when the tide came in and washed away all of their possessions. The campers decided to go further into the cave initially. However, the tide kept coming and they ended up having to struggle through deep water. Helmsman and RNLI volunteer, Philip John, said: "RNLI Tenby lifeboat station got the call to launch at around 6.50 am and we soon spotted the campers waving; they were soaked through and obviously very pleased to see the lifeboat. "We gave them first aid and got them to dress in survival suits as they were very cold. We then handed them into the care of the Tenby coastguard team. "I can't think of anything more dangerous than being asleep in a cave with the tide coming in to cover you. We're all so relieved that camping equipment is the only thing they lost - the sea could have taken their lives. "Anyone visiting the coast during the holiday should always check the tide times; they are usually in the local 'paper, or you can call the coastguard - it's such a simple thing to do and it could save your life."

SAFETY MESSAGE

Following Friday's incident, HM Coastguard have also issued the following safety warning. "The number of incidents involving persons being cut off by the tide recently is quite alarming," said a spokesman. "Not only have we in West Wales had to deal with several, all with happy endings, the coastguards in South Wales have dealt with even more cut-offs, one with a tragic ending. "HM Coastguard reminds holidaymakers that the sea is a constantly moving mass. The weather, and particularly the winds, create the waves, surf, ripples and swells. "The currents under the surface cannot be seen, but can be so strong as to drag a person off their feet or carry them out to sea. "Tides come in and go out approximately four times a day with again approximately six to seven hours between a high and low tide. "Some tides can be extra high, covering sands and rocks that are normally dry. Because of these factors, it is important to find out what state the tide is in before setting off for the beach. "Tide tables are available at all local newsagents and Tourist Information Centres, and any information regarding safety, weather, or other maritime subjects can be obtained from the Coastguard. Milford Haven Coastguard can be contacted on 01646 690909, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. "We want you all to be safe, not a statistic."