A college group of 28 children wearing outdoor footwear and travel backpacks were forced to battle terrible Welsh weather conditions, as one member was rescued by an RAF helicopter.

While completing their gold and silver Duke of Edinburgh awards in Camarthenshire, a teenage boy had to be airlifted to safety after falling over ten metres.

The 16-year-old was found by the Brecon Mountain Rescue Team, who then called the RAF helicopter pilots to assist in saving the boy.

Mark Jones, Brecon Mountain Rescue Team's deputy leader, said: "The group were camping overnight when one lad ran down a slope, fell and tumbled 10 metres."

Weather conditions were described to be "terrible" as strong wind and rain threatened to halt the rescue operation at numerous points.

After six hours the boy was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was found to be suffering from suspected spine and spleen injuries.

The rescue staff have claimed that the incident was a terrible accident and that the party had been properly equipped with suitable walking footwear and outdoor clothing.