There were dramatic scenes along the south Meirionnydd coast last night when an “extensive search” of the sea took place following reports of a person in the water.

Coastguard teams from Gwynedd and Ceredigion launched, along with Aberdovey RNLI and the coastguard helicopter.

Following a thorough search of the sea off Tywyn, rescue teams found “nothing untoward”. They were stood down and the call was considered to be a false alarm with good intent.

A coastguard spokesperson said: “HM Coastguard has coordinated an extensive search after receiving a report of a person in the water just before 6pm.

“Aberdovey and Borth Coastguard Rescue Teams together with Aberdovey RNLI lifeboat and HM Coastguard’s helicopter from Caernarfon carried out an extensive search but found nothing untoward.”

Aberdovey Coastguard Rescue Team said they received a call at 5.56pm “to reports of male casualty in the water off Tywyn promenade”.

“With assistance from HM Coastguard Borth, Aberdyfi Lifeboat and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency Rescue helicopter 936 a thorough search was performed.

“All agencies concluded their search at 8.45pm with no casualty found.”