A couple’s relaxing holiday on the scenic Welsh island of Anglesey took an unexpected and worrying turn last week after a man was bitten by a snake while sunbathing on the beach. The incident has raised concern amongst both locals and visitors, prompting calls for greater vigilance along the region’s picturesque coastline as warmer weather entices people outdoors.
Liverpool residents Julie Davis and Mick Lancaster had set off for what they hoped would be a tranquil week-long retreat beside the sea. Their holiday, however, was cut short just two days into their stay after an unfortunate encounter on Rhosneigr beach left 68-year-old Mick in need of urgent medical attention.
The events unfolded last Wednesday, 6 May, during what had been shaping up to be a classic day by the seaside. According to Ms Davis, the couple had just returned from a refreshing swim and were sunbathing on the sand when disaster struck. They had adjusted their towels to better catch the sun, enjoyed a simple lunch, and settled down to relax—unaware of the danger lurking nearby.
As they lay on their stomachs, Mick suddenly felt something sharp on the top of his thigh. At first, Julie thought it might be a wasp sting and quickly checked for any obvious signs. Mick, however, insisted it felt like something longer. Pulling back the towel, the pair were startled to discover a snake curled beneath, which then slithered off toward the shoreline.
The creature, believed to be an adder—Britain’s only native venomous snake—had apparently emerged from the sand dunes and taken shelter under Mick’s towel. Recalling advice received later, Julie said: “We were told that adders don’t normally bite unless they’re provoked, so it seems likely it was startled when we moved the towels and lay back down.”
Recognising the seriousness of the situation as Mick’s leg began to swell and grow increasingly painful, the couple decided not to take any risks. They packed up their belongings and drove directly to Bangor Hospital for treatment. “By the time we got to A&E, the swelling had spread down past his knee and his leg was red hot and very sore,” Julie said.
Hospital staff administered two paracetamol for pain relief and kept Mick under observation overnight to monitor his reaction. Fortunately, his symptoms eventually stabilised, but both he and Julie were left shaken by the sudden and alarming turn of events.
In the wake of their ordeal, the couple have urged others to exercise caution, especially with the approach of school holidays and the likelihood of children running freely on the beach. “It could have been much worse if a child had been bitten. Kids run around and often don’t see what’s underfoot,” Julie pointed out. She also admitted to feeling a sense of helplessness in the moment, saying she worried about making things worse if she tried to treat the bite herself.
Medical experts note that while adder bites are relatively rare in the UK and seldom life-threatening, they can cause considerable pain, swelling and, in extreme cases, severe allergic reactions—particularly in the very young, elderly, or those with existing medical conditions. Prompt medical attention is always advised in the event of a suspected snake bite, with close observation recommended for any worsening symptoms.
Mick’s unfortunate encounter serves as a timely reminder that, even in familiar settings, nature can be unpredictable. Local authorities commonly advise beachgoers to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid disturbing wildlife, and know how to react in case of emergencies.
Ultimately, this incident highlights both the beauty and hazards present in some of the UK’s wildest corners. As more people flock to the coast over the summer, simple precautions and a little extra awareness could help ensure that holidays are remembered for all the right reasons.