TWO swimmers were saved from the icy waters of Orkney by coastguard rescue teams in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The UK coastguard was called just before 1.50am by the Scottish ambulance service, after reports that two people were in the water at Inganess Bay.
The Kirkwall coastguard rescue team and RNLI lifeboat were sent to the scene, along with the coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Shetland.
The shore-based rescue team were first to arrive, with a rescue swimmer swimming 70m to reach the causalities.
Both were brought ashore where they were met by paramedics and transferred to Balfour Hospital.
During the rescue the coastguard swimmer inhaled sea water and was also taken to hospital where he was later released.
Andy Graham of Shetland Coastguard said: “I would advise against people entering the water at night, the sea may look calm but strong currents can cause hidden dangers.
“You should always check tidal conditions and when possible swim at a beach where a lifeguard is present.
“The Coastguard rescue swimmer who went into the water should be praised for his bravery, without him the rescue tonight could have easily had a very different outcome”
