MORE THAN 200 people came to see the waves crash against Penarth Esplanade during extremely high tides over the weekend.

Penarthians armed with their cameras took hundreds of spectacular photos of waves that flooded the road and caused the esplanade to be closed on Friday morning and night.

Penarth Coastguard attended the scene on Friday night to ensure people stayed safe and kept away from the edge as they came down to watch the waves crash over Penarth Esplanade and on to the road.

Paul Gallone, station officer for Penarth Coastguard, said that the conditions were “pretty atrocious” as waves came over the top of the esplanade defences and brought pebbles and stones with them.

“Our concern was to make sure that people didn’t get too close and enjoy the whole spectacle from a safe distance,” he said.

“We can’t stop people coming down to see it, but we can ensure they do it from a safe distance.”

The Vale of Glamorgan Council had warned people to avoid seafront areas during high tides and said that Penarth Esplanade would be monitored for road closures on Friday night and Saturday morning.

Penarth Pier was also closed for public safety and reopened on Monday.