THREE people using a paddleboard have been rescued after they were blown out to sea by strong offshore winds yesterday (Wednesday).

The group had been close inshore but the strong winds, which were reaching gusts up to 40mph, carried them away from the shore.

When they realised they were in danger, two adults attempted to reach them, one swimming out and another using a paddleboard.

North Berwick’s RNLI volunteers were called at about 4.30pm and were on scene in about six minutes.

When they arrived, they found one child and two adults on a paddleboard, having drifted about 800m from their launch site.

Two other children who had been part of the group made it safely ashore unaided. 

The casualties were brought on board the lifeboat and transferred to the lifeboat station where they were checked over by members of the Scottish Ambulance Service.

North Berwick Coastguard Rescue Team brought the other two children to the lifeboat station where they were also monitored in the warm and dry until they were discharged.

Fraser Fulton, helm of North Berwick lifeboat, said: “This was a very serious situation, thankfully with a positive outcome.

“Offshore winds can be deceiving and can very quickly take you away from safety. 

“The water around North Berwick is cold, even in summer, if you fall into the water it will be a shock and you will get cold very quickly, potentially losing coordination in your arms and legs and finding it difficult to swim.

“If you’re heading out on the water on a paddleboard, check the forecast and avoid offshore winds.

“Always wear a buoyancy aid, carry a waterproofed means of calling for help and wear your leash.

“A paddleboard is much easier to spot and can help you stay afloat so stay with it.

“In any coastal emergency dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.

“We thank those who alerted us to this incident which allowed us to respond so quickly.”