A DOG tried to cling to any available ledge after getting into difficulties in the water at Pigeon Cove on the Great Orme.

Llandudno Coastguard were called out to the incident on Saturday evening. This followed reports of a dog and its owner struggling in the sea.

In a statement, they said: "On arrival at the scene, we were quickly able to establish that there were no people in the water but that there was a dog in difficulties with a very distressed owner nearby.

"We were able to direct our friends at RNLI Llandudno Lifeboat to the location of the dog, and they were able to get the dog into the lifeboat. The dog and owner were soon reunited at the old lifeboat slipway."

Llandudno's D-Class Lifeboat 'Dr Barbara Saunderson' launched just after 6pm.

An RNLI spokesperson said: "There were concerns that the dog's owner might have also entered the water to try to rescue the dog.

"The dedicated volunteer crew of four swiftly reached the scene at 6.11pm and, aided by Llandudno Coastguard, located the struggling dog. Upon seeing the lifeboat arrive on the scene, the owner managed to reach safety as the crew approached the dog, which was visibly struggling to stay afloat and trying to find any available ledge to cling onto on the cliff face.

"The crew members managed to retrieve the dog, secure a lead on him, and slowly navigated back to the old slipway where Llandudno Coastguard personnel were ready to assist. The dog was wrapped in blankets to keep him warm and ensure his well-being."

The spokesperson added: "Thanks to the swift and coordinated efforts of the RNLI team and Coastguard, the dog was safely rescued and brought to safety, showcasing the dedication and compassion of our local emergency responders in protecting both humans and animals in need."

Anyone who gets into difficulties [or is aware of someone in potential danger] around the coast, telephone 999 and ask for the coastguard.