A KITESURFER who sparked a multi-agency search after being reported missing last night, December 15, has been found safe and well after spending the night wrapped in his kite.

A multi-agency search was launched yesterday after concerns about Christopher Goldsworthy, aged 32, who has not been spoken to since around 5pm on Sunday. (December 15).

Christopher, from Pentlepoir, was last seen kite surfing at Pendine Sands. He was wearing a black wetsuit at that time.

Coastguard and RNLI teams carried out an extensive search of the water, however this has been stood down due to dangerous weather conditions.

Tenby's RNLI all-weather lifeboat was requested to launch at 6pm on Sunday as part of the search.

The volunteer crew made best speed to Pendine in heavy seas and strong winds and began a coastline search from Pendine towards Pembrey, whilst Coastguard teams search the shore and Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 187 from RAF St Athan searched from above.

The search was made more difficult due to poor visibility and a large swell.

Around five hours later, with the area thoroughly searched and conditions deteriorating on both the shore and at sea, the Coastguard made the decision to stand the search down and review the options at first light.

Fortunately, Christopher was found safe and well, despite having spent a very chilly night out in the open.

Christoper’s mum, Wendy, said: “My son Chris has been found safe and well. Probably starving…he'd been blown into Llanstephan and spent the night wrapped up in his kite.

“He managed to get ashore at Llanstephan mudflats; too dark to find his way safely, so he wrapped himself up in his kite surfer sail and waited for daylight.”

Wendy added: “Massive thanks to everyone who helped...Probably missed some but HM Coastguard who were lead agency, Dyfed Powys Police who led land-based ops; both brilliant at keeping us informed.

“The RNLI, fishing boats from Saundersfoot and Milford Waterway, and absolutely loads of friends and family who helped searching and gave me such support.

“It's such a massive relief. Also, amazingly supportive to know how many people have contacted us.

“Thank you all so very much.

"It was the best Christmas present ever."

Tenby, Burry Port and Mumbles RNLI volunteers joined HM Coastguard teams and Ferryside independent lifeboat this morning (December 16) in the search for Mr Goldsworthy.

At 8am this morning both Tenby’s all-weather and inshore lifeboat, Mumbles all-weather lifeboat, and Burry Port Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat launched to assist in the search, coordinated by HM Coastguard.

The volunteer crews were all stood down shortly after 9.20am after he was found safe and well.

Joanna Price, RNLI area lifesaving manager said: “We are all delighted that the missing kitesurfer has been found safe and well.

“If you’re heading out to the coast over the Christmas period remember to tell someone when you’re going and when you’re due to return.

“If you see someone in trouble over the coast don’t attempt the rescue yourself, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”