AN "illogical and risky" decision to axe and merge lifesaving Anglesey coastguard services has prompted safety fears.

The Holyhead Coastguard Rescue Team has been temporarily disbanded and the Coastguard Rescue Teams at Rhosneigr and Rhoscolyn have been temporarily merged.

Now the island's MP Albert Owen has called for the decision to be "reconsidered," and its AM Rhun ap Iorwerth is calling for more "information and assurances."

The politicians have concerns for public safety as the summer advances when visitor number rise on Anglesey.

The Island's MP Albert Owen said:

“ Ynys Mon MP Albert Owen said: “To contract the coastguard cover ahead of the summer uplift of visitors to our coastal communities is illogical at best and risky at worst.

"With extra numbers visiting Anglesey and enjoying the sea and coastal attractions means we need extra not less.

"Our coastguard rescue teams do an excellent job, they are professional, have local knowledge and experience and are valued by locals and visitors alike. I urge decision makers to reconsider and put the safety of the public first.”

"With the increase in coastal sports such as ‘coast steering’ it is imperative that local cliff rescue teams are part of the overall rescue operation.

"Their local knowledge is irreplaceable and vital to carry out rescues as fast as possible.

"Teams drawn from other areas might not be as well informed on the numerous coves and crannies of Holy Island.

The Island's AM Rhun ap Iorwerth said:

"Mr ap Iorwerth said: "It is very worrying that these changes are happening apparently with no advance warning.

"Coastguard rescue teams provide an invaluable resource in terms of safety on and off our coast, and as we approach the busy summer months this is particularly important.

"I will be contacting the Maritime Coastal Agency to seek further information and assurances."

A spokesperson for the Coastguard and Maritime agency said:

"The Coastguard Rescue Team based at Holyhead has temporarily been stood down.

"It would be inappropriate to comment further at this time but we have taken action to resolve this as promptly as possible.

"In a separate decision, Rhoscolyn Coastguard Rescue Team has temporarily merged with Rhosneigr Coastguard Rescue Team.

"In addition, HM Coastguard can call upon a range of search and rescue assets for all incidents in this area such as four other Coastguard Rescue Teams, Cemaes Bay, Moelfre, Penmon and Rhosneigr and HM Coastguard’s helicopter based at Caernarfon.

"There is built in resilience which allows flexibility to deal with incidents across the area."