AN ice cream van was whipped out to sea by the tide at Harlyn Bay Beach on Sunday afternoon. (July 7)

The Kelly Whip ice cream van was battered by waves after attempts to pull the vehicle up the beach failed at about 4pm.

The ice cream truck became stuck in the sand at the western end of the beach and a 4x4 vehicle was brought in to try and pull it to safety with the help of beachgoers.

But the Kelly Whip van became stuck on rocks and had to be abandoned when the fast rising tide came in and swamped the vehicle and it was swept out to sea.

Padstow coastguard rescue team and RNLI lifeguards were sent to Harlyn Bay at about 5pm.

The van was recovered at about 9.45pm.

A spokesperson for Padstow Coastguard said: "Just before 5pm yesterday afternoon HM Coastguard was made aware of an ice cream van that was caught by the tide at Harlyn Bay, Cornwall. 

"Padstow Coastguard Rescue Team and RNLI Lifeguards were sent to ensure the safety of those involved.

"The driver was safe and well and not in the vehicle. 

"The owner arranged a recovery vehicle which recovered the van at around 9:45pm when tide receded enough for it to be safe to do so.

"Coastguard rescue officers left once the vehicle was recovered and in a safe location."