A woman and a child were rescued by members of the Civil Protection Department after they found themselves in difficulty while swimming in Marsalforn, the CPD said on its Facebook page.

The rescue occurred on Tuesday, but photos of CPD members performing their difficult task were uploaded on the social media Wednesday.

The mother and child found themselves in difficulty while swimming due to the strong waves, and had to seek shelter in a small depression underneath the promenade, the CPD said.

Due to the dangers involved, a team of the firefighters abseiled and rescued both, it added.

The mother and child were taken to hospital for treatment to minor injuries.

The Civil Protection Department thanked Gozo Hospital Staff and AFM for the assistance rendered.