RNLI guards 'mean safer beaches'

RNLI lifeguards are a familiar site on some beaches in England

RNLI lifeguards are to patrol some of the most popular beaches in Wales for the first time next summer.

The charity has teamed up with Pembrokeshire Council to take on lifeguard cover at 12 beaches, the first such partnership in Wales.

It said it would create a "seamless" rescue service as lifeguards would work closely with lifeboat crews.

Improved equipment and training would make a "significant difference" in terms of beach safety, it added.

RNLI lifeguards are a familiar sight on more than 70 beaches in south west and east England.

Although the charity operates 31 lifeboat stations in Wales, the lifeguard units in Pembrokeshire will be a Welsh first.

BEACHES TO HAVE RNLI LIFEGUARDS Poppet Sands Newport Sands Whitesands Newgale Broadhaven North Dale Lydstep Tenby South Tenby North Tenby Castle Saundersfoot Amroth

Pembrokeshire Council currently employs around 45 lifeguards on its busiest beaches for 10 weeks each year from late June to the end of August.

The RNLI will provide a "like for like" service and will liaise with the council's existing lifeguards when its recruitment drive starts in the new year.

John Broad, deputy divisional inspector for lifeguards, said: "The RNLI's aim to provide a seamless rescue service from the beach to the open sea is being realised in Pembrokeshire.

"We are delighted that the council has taken steps to bring the RNLI's quality training and equipment to its beaches which will enable us to make a significant difference in terms of safety."

Council cabinet member Rob Lewis said: "We have been operating beach lifeguards in Pembrokeshire for over 20 years and have built up a service which covers more beaches and employs more lifeguards than any other county in Wales - possibly even in the UK.

"It seemed like a natural progression to form this relationship with the RNLI to integrate completely with all the emergency responders."