RNLI lifeguard season in the south west draws to a close

For the first time this year those living and visiting south east Cornwall will not need to travel far to visit a lifeguarded beach, with the charity extending safety patrols on Seaton beach.

RNLI lifeguards will provide safety cover on Seaton, Praa Sands, Sennen, Gwithian, Porthtowan, Perranporth, Towan, Watergate, Mawgan Porth, Harlyn, Constantine, Polzeath, Widemouth and Summerleaze in Cornwall, plus Woolacombe, and Bantham in Devon on weekends and during the school half term (Saturday 20 October until Sunday 28 October).

Fistral Beach in Newquay, Porthmeor beach in St Ives, Sennen Cove and Croyde in North Devon will have full time lifeguard cover throughout the whole month, until 28 October.

Charlie Gillett, RNLI lifeguard supervisor for South East Cornwall says;

‘October typically sees bigger surf conditions and although the air temperature has dropped, the water temperature is still very warm as it’s been heated throughout the summer. As a result we see more and more people wanting to spend their time at the beach and in the water before the short winter days approach.

‘So we’re really pleased to be able to offer extended lifeguard patrols on Seaton beach for the first time this year. This gives those living or visiting south east Cornwall an accessible beach on which to enjoy their activity safely. We’d really encourage anyone planning on going in the water to head to Seaton or one of the other lifeguarded beaches around the region where lifeguards will be on hand to offer advice and keep people safe.

‘Where there are no flags, there is no lifeguard service. Those who can’t make it to a lifeguarded beach can help keep themselves safe by taking note of the safety signage at the entrance to the beach, going with a friend or telling someone on the shore where they are going, at the same time always being aware of the conditions and their own capabilities in the water. Those who enjoy walking and exploring the coastline should also check the local tide times.’

The lifeguards will be on duty on the selected beaches between 10am and 6pm until the clocks go back on Sunday 28 October when the operational hours will be reduced to 10am-5pm for the last day of patrols.

Note to editors

• Attached is a photo of the lifeguards on duty at Porthcurno during September. Credit RNLI

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