Not such a swell time

The thing about paddling on the sea is - it is never quite what you were expecting. The plan (yes we still have them) was to paddle Cemlyn to Holyhead, taking advantage of the calm conditions, but we had heard that there was a kayaker missing after the bad weather on Sunday.

Phoned the coastguard to offer our services, expecting to be told that the last thing they needed was some bungling amateurs, but they were very grateful, so Rich and I set off part way down the Malltraeth estuary intending to go up the coast as far as Rhosneigr.

Conditions were calm, warm and sunny, but we knew there was still some swell out there somewhere, as you could see the white flashes on 'Lumley Bank' (see far left of picture)

and spray leaping over the end of Llanddwyn.

Despite the potential seriousness of the task, the paddling was idyllic apart from the strain on your neck of looking back into all the small bays and inlets that you pass.

The swell was beginning to make its presence known as we rounded the headland and headed for Pen Y Parc, and added piquancy to our beach landing in front of the inshore lifeboat (on its way South).

Fortified by pasties and tea we launched into the now dumping surf - slightly early (after a big set) in my case ..... must have looked exciting from the beach, but I only got wet.

Quick blast across to Llanddwyn (still enough swell to hide other vessels - that is why you can't see any)

then round the corner to the peace and quiet of Pilot's cove....

and time to phone for a pick up from Traeth Niwbwrch. About 15k paddled, but no sign of Elizabeth Ashbee or her kayak.