A major rescue operation was launched using diggers after a girl got stuck under massive rocks on a mid Wales beach as the tide came in.
Dozens of rescuers and heavy lifting machinery was needed to reach the young child trapped amongst stone 'armour' on Tywyn beach.
Aberdovy Coastguard Rescue Team arrived at 3:19pm - but with high tide due at 8:31pm, the team were racing against the clock.
Contractors brought in lifting machinery, including a large digger, as a last resort.
A coordinated three-hour effort, led by the Mid and North Wales Coastguard officer, freed the girl in a "very delicate operation," as her parents watched in terror.
OTHER NEWS:
- Rescue teams save pensioner trapped in garage vehicle pit for two days
- Welshpool councillor slams plan for wider pavements on key route in town
- £12 million Elan Valley transformation project step nearer to reality
Also attending the incident were Barmouth Coastguard Rescue, Tywyn Fire Station, North Wales Police, Welsh Ambulance Service, Gwynedd Maritime Service and Wales Air Ambulance.
In a statement on social media, a coastguard rescue officer said: “It was a last resort as moving those rocks, some approx 3 tonnes, could cause other problems.
''The main concern was the incoming tide.
“A very delicate operation with the tide not on our side. However, teamwork prevailed and the rescue proved successful and the child was recovered safe and well.
“Please remember. As much as rock climbing can be fun, they are fraught with danger. Please take care.”
The incident happened on Sunday.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here