Man pulled from river and taken to hospital after major rescue operation

A huge operation including helicopters and boats was launched following reports of a man falling into the River Usk

A man has been taken to hospital after a major rescue mission was launched by emergency services in Newport.

Gwent Police confirmed they received a call reporting that a man had fallen in the River Usk, next to the St Julian Inn pub in Caerleon Road, at around 9am on Friday, May 2. Officers attended alongside South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, paramedics, the National Police Air Service, and an air ambulance.

Fire service crews were deployed from Malpas, Ebbw Vale, Cardiff Central, and Maindee and this included a boat crew, appliances, and specialist equipment.

The man was brought to safety and taken to hospital as a precaution with injuries that are not deemed as life-threatening or life-changing.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has since issued a warning about swimming in rivers and open water during the warm weather.

Head of community safety for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, St John Towell, said: “The key issues for us over the next few days are the hot, dry conditions coupled with any moderate to strong winds over the higher ground which could increase the risk of wildfires across the area.

"Fires destroy countryside and are often caused by carelessness. We urge people enjoying the countryside to do so safely.

“Unfortunately we see tragic incidents of accidental drownings when the weather is warmer as people attempt to cool off in open water.

"We are urging people to never be tempted to jump into any open water or swim in open water where it is not an organised event. It may be warm outside but the water is often not.”