RNLI lifeguard patrols are due to finish on the majority of beaches across Cornwall and Devon this weekend as the summer draws to a close.

As in previous years, lifeguards will remain on duty into October on a number of the busiest beaches for those people wishing to get into the water in the autumn.

This Sunday (September 25) sees the official end to the RNLI lifeguard season in Cornwall and Devon. 

However due to increasing numbers of people looking to spend time at the beach out of season, the charity will continue to provide safety cover on a number of beaches on October 1 to 2, 8 to 9, 15 to 16 and during half term week, October 22 to 30.

The beaches with lifeguard cover are: Woolacombe, Croyde and Bantham in Devon; and Praa Sands, Sennen, Porthmeor, Gwithian, Porthtowan, Perranporth, Watergate Bay, Polzeath and Widemouth in Cornwall.

At Summerleaze, volunteer RNLI lifeguards along with volunteers from Bude Surf Lifesaving Club will patrol the beach to provide the same cover in October.

Fistral beach in Newquay will have lifeguard cover every day throughout October and voluntary patrols during weekends in November. At Mawgan Porth the RNLI will run advisory patrols during half term to advise visitors on how to stay safe at the beach.

Steve Instance, senior RNLI lifeguard manager, said: ‘It has been a very busy season for our lifeguards; we have seen huge numbers of people coming to beaches in the south west over the summer. 

‘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, and being aware of the conditions and their own capabilities in the water.’

The RNLI’s advice is not to enter the water if you see someone in trouble but rather to call 999 and ask for the coastguard.