‎A 12-year-old girl has been hailed as a hero after rescuing her drowning friend by pulling her from the sea using her hair when the teenager suffered a seizure and became unresponsive in the water.

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‎The incident occurred at Pensarn Beach in Abergele, North Wales, during a recent heatwave when Tamika, 12, and her 14-year-old friend, Sofia-Ann, were paddling in shallow water before being suddenly dragged under by strong tidal conditions.

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‎According to family members, Sofia-Ann suffered a seizure after losing her footing in the sea. Despite being pulled underwater herself, Tamika managed to grab her friend’s long hair and drag her towards the shore, helping keep her afloat until assistance arrived.

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‎Emergency services, including coastguard rescue teams, police officers and ambulance personnel, responded after reports that three teenagers had become stranded by the incoming tide.

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‎Sofia-Ann was transported to hospital, where medical personnel drained water from her lungs. She also experienced additional seizures while being taken for treatment and remained under observation overnight before being discharged.

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‎Her mother, Jade McKenna, credited Tamika’s quick thinking with saving her daughter’s life.

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‎“I’m so grateful for Tamika. She put herself in danger to save Sofia-Ann. She’s my little hero,” McKenna said.

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‎Tamika’s mother, Shantika, described the ordeal as traumatic and praised her daughter’s bravery.

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‎“Tamika got dragged under as well, but she still focused on Sofia and getting her out of the water,” she said.

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‎The cause of Sofia-Ann’s seizures is currently being investigated by medical professionals.

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‎The incident has also highlighted ongoing concerns about the dangers of coastal waters, particularly during periods of warm weather when beaches attract larger crowds.

Family members urged parents and young people to remain vigilant around the sea, warning that conditions can change rapidly even in seemingly safe areas.

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‎Sofia-Ann has since returned home and is recovering.