Five divers, who were prevented from returning to shore by rough seas, were hoisted to safety by army rescuers yesterday.

An Armed Forces of Malta Alouette helicopter was used in the rescue of the three male and two female divers after they found themselves in difficulty on surfacing off Wied Iz-Zurrieq.

They were winched aboard the helicopter as another hovered in the area just in case it was needed.

The army said the divers were in good health.