A youth has been cleared this afternoon (Thursday) of the underwater rape of a teenage girl.

The 17 year-old, who cannot be named because of a court order, was accused of pulling aside her swimming costume and forcing himself on her while they were in the sea off the beach at Saundersfoot.

The youth told a jury at Swansea crown court that while there may have been some kissing involved there had not been any sexual contact.

Ian Wright, prosecuting, said the pair had been in a group enjoying a day out at the beach.

At one stage the rest of the group stopped swimming and returned to the beach, leaving just the youth and the girl in the water.

The defendant was alleged to have touched her legs and to have pulled her with such force that she went under the water.

Then, said Mr Wright, he exposed himself while holding her around the waist.

Despite trying to bite him, added Mr Wright, he managed to pull her towards him and to have sexual intercourse with her.

Mr Wright said he stopped only when other members of the group re-entered the sea.

Mr Wright said the girl immediately complained to her cousin about what had happened.

The cousin told the jury she had been surprised to see them kissing while in the sea.

She confirmed the girl told her that the boy had had sex with her. But when she advised her to be careful before making allegations she appeared to brush away the matter.

She said she had watched the couple while they had been in the water and had not been aware of anything sexual taking place.

The jury returned a verdict of not guilty, which sparked celebrations of relief amongst some members of the public.