A TEENAGER was swept away by a strong current as he took a dip in a fast-flowing river.

Four youngsters decided to swim in the River Ouse yesterday but were taken by surprise by the strength of the tide.

Three of the group were able to make it back to the river bank but one was pulled downstream.

The fourth teenager was eventually able to stop by hanging on to Southease Bridge, which is between Newhaven and Lewes.

Police, Newhaven Coastguard and fire crews were called to the scene just after midday.

A Coastguard spokesman said: “One of the casualties was defeated by the strength of tide and was unable to make it to the river bank, instead managing to climb on to the wood work structure of the bridge.

“East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service managed to get a ladder from the bridge down to the casualty who was safely recovered.

“The tide at Southease Bridge is always very strong, even more so with all of the extra rainwater flowing down the river. Always swim in a safe place and within your capabilities. If you get into difficulty in a fast flowing river, don’t try and swim against the tide,

“Try floating with the tide and swim slightly sideways towards the river bank.

“If someone is in difficulty in the water on or near the coast dial 999 and ask for Coastguard.”