A group of eight scouts had to be winched to safety last night after getting themselves stuck on a ledge 50ft up a cliff.

The group found themselves stranded on the ledge between Maenporth and Durgan yesterday evening.

Falmouth's inshore and offshore lifeboat attended the incident, and provided light while a coastguard team winched them to safety.

All eight of the teenagers were rescued uninjured.

Ian Guy, watch manager at Falmouth Coastguard, said: "We understand that eight scouts aged between 12 and 15 years old got themselves into difficulty when they were walking along the shoreline and the tide started to cut their path off.

"They decided to make their way up the steep slope which can be a little precarious due to the undergrowth and loose debris underfoot.

"Four scouts managed to get to safety but the eight remaining had to be rescued by the Coastguard Rescue Officers utilising their cliff rescue equipment this was assisted by the crew of the lifeboats on scene which illuminated the area with their search lights.

"The five boys and three girl scouts are safe and well and have been checked over by the members of the Ambulance service on scene.

"We would like to remind visitors to the coast to always check the weather and tidal conditions before you set out so that you can prepare accordingly.

"Consider whether you could become cut off and do not take risks.

"Dial ‘999’ and ask for the Coastguard if you are in danger."