AN off-duty lifeguard saved the life of a surfer after they were knocked unconscious by their board at Fistral Beach.

Sam Brenchley was unconscious in the water “for a few minutes” when he was spotted by the lifeguard and brought back to shore where he was “brought back to life” on Monday, March 31 shortly before 1am.

Newquay Coastguard Rescue Team and the ambulance service also attended the incident.

Cornwall Air Ambulance landed on the beach, and he was airlifted to the Royal Cornwall Hospital for treatment.

Sam Brenchley is organising a fundraiser to help replace his wetsuit, which was cut off while he received treatment on the beach.

He said: “I suffered a wack to the head from a surfboard and the impact caused me to black out.

“I was unconscious in the water for a few minutes until an off duty lifeguard managed to spot me and drag me to shore and proceeded to bring me back to life.

“The air ambulance did a great job in airlifting me to the hospital where I was well looked after.

“Unfortunately, my wetsuit was cut off me on the beach for safety reasons and now I longer have a wetsuit. Could you please help me get back in the water?

Anyone who would like to make a donation can visit ?