The Dyfed Powys Police helicopter was scrambled into action on Monday morning after a holidaymaker became trapped by the incoming tide.

The call came in shortly before 11 am. A woman, along with a seven-year-old child, had become stranded on mudbanks in the Taf Estuary by the incoming tide.

"The inshore rescue boats from Llanstephan and Tenby were deployed by the coastguard, as well as their search and rescue helicopter," said Inspector Ian Richards. "But due to a delay at their end, they asked us to assist and so our police helicopter was the first at the scene.

"Officers on board the helicopter were able to quickly find the woman and child and the decision was taken, because of the rapidly incoming tide, that the crew should try and rescue the pair.

"Basically, they were up to their knees in mud and wouldn't have been able to find their way to hard ground. But the crew were able to land themselves and rescue the pair, dropping them off safely at Laugharne.

"Both were uninjured but very shocked after their ordeal, and this incident serves as a timely reminder.

"Carmarthenshire is a lovely place to come and spend a holiday, but visitors need to be mindful of the local conditions when they explore our beautiful coastline."