RNLI beach safety scheme extended

The lifeguard scheme started in Pembrokeshire last year

The RNLI is expanding its summer lifeguard service to include three new areas in Wales.

The charity started patrolling beaches in Pembrokeshire last year, but has now decided to take in Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Ceredigion.

More than 100 lifeguards are now employed by the RNLI to cover 28 beaches along Wales' coastline.

The lifeguards will be funded by councils, while training and equipment will be supplied by the RNLI.

As well as rescuing those in trouble, the lifeguards will provide first aid and beach safety information, and advice on potential hazards between 1000 and 1800 BST.

Four beaches in Swansea and Cefn Sidan in Carmarthenshire started their patrols last month.

'Fantastic'

Beaches in Ceredigion and Pendine in Carmarthenshire will welcome the lifeguards in July.

Tenby South and Whitesands in Pembrokeshire are currently being patrolled, with the remaining 11 beaches set to have lifeguards on 27 June.

The RNLI's deputy divisional manager Phil Davies said: "It is fantastic to see the expansion in Wales this year.

"Professionally trained RNLI lifeguards will now be working in three new areas this summer, thanks to steps taken by these forward thinking councils.

"We look forward to working closely with our lifeboat stations in order to provide a rescue service both on the beaches and in the open sea."

Last year, lifeguards were involved in 509 incidents and helped more than 561 people in Pembrokeshire.