The paddler fell into the Afon Colwyn. Photo: Philip Halling CC-BY-SA-2.0

Mountain rescuers called out to search for a missing kayaker on Snowdonia river said his buoyancy aid and wetsuit saved his life.

Aberglaslyn Mountain Rescue Team was alerted shortly after 10.30am yesterday after reports the man had fallen into the Afon Colwyn near Beddgelert.

The paddler was in a group of four when he fell into the swollen river about a mile upstream from Beddgelert.

A team spokesperson said: “Due to the heavy rainfall and inclement weather conditions over the previous week, river levels were high with flood alerts in place for the Glaslyn catchment area making for dangerous conditions on the river.

“The Aberglaslyn team was scrambled, with several team members making their way to the base near Porthmadog to collect their specialist swiftwater rescue equipment including drysuits, buoyancy aids, helmets, throwlines and a rescue boat.

“Fortunately, news came that North Wales Police officers who were en route to the incident had located the missing kayaker safe and well walking along the A4085 towards Rhyd Ddu to rejoin his group.

“Luckily, the kayaker was well equipped and in possession of a buoyancy aid and a wetsuit which undoubtedly saved his life.”