This is the dramatic moment a schoolboy was rescued from a rough sea by locals who threw a rope from a pier.

Beachgoers spotted the child, 13, struggling in the choppy waters near Natai Pier in Phang-nga Province, southern Thailand.

Quick-thinking locals rushed to help, tossing a rope from the bridge to pull the panicked youngster to safety on July 28.

Footage recorded by onlooker Supatra Bumbim shows the youngster in a red shirt clinging desperately to the cable while subtle waves crash around him.

Local media said bystanders alerted the Loma Rescue Team, who arrived to provide first aid. Officials said two other boys were also rescued from the water.

All three victims were taken to Takua Thung Hospital, where they are recovering from the ordeal.