Storms batter boats off Abersoch

Aug 19 2008 By Carl Butler

A CLEAR-UP was taking place this morning after 27 boats were smashed by gale force winds last night off Abersoch.

Coastguard teams had to persuade 30-40 boat owners to get out of the sea as they tried to rescue their craft.

Watch officer Robert Bowyer described that situation as "very dangerous."

There are unconfirmed reports that a 20-30ft yacht may have sunk after some wreckage appeared.

The area was hit about 10pm last night by south westerly winds up to Gale Force 8 and a high tide.

Dinghies and light craft left on the beach were washed into the sea and smashed.

Coastguards say the official count is 27 boats destroyed though initial reports suggested up to 50 had been lost so, with the clear up continuing this morning, that figure could rise.

A warning has been put out to other vessels sailing in the area as debris from the storm could pose a danger to boats at sea.