RNLI lifeguards will make a return to the region’s beaches tomorrow (May 5) as patrols for the 2018 summer season get under way.

As in previous years, RNLI lifeguards have spent the last few weeks visiting primary schoolsas part of the ‘Meet the Lifeguards’ programme, educating youngsters on how to stay safe at the beach.

Steve Instance of the RNLI said: ‘If you are planning on getting in the water, it’s worth remembering the sea temperature is still very cold so it’s  important people wear a suitable wetsuit and bring warm clothes to change into.

‘We urge beachgoers to head to an RNLI lifeguarded beach and to swim and bodyboard in the supervised area marked out by the red and yellow flags. Try and stay within your depth and follow the lifeguard’s advice. If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help. If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard, or if you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’

Lifeguard patrols across the region will start on individual beaches at different dates between now and July. To find your nearest lifeguarded beach visit rnli.org

Beaches patrolled from May 5: Tregonhawke, Sharrow, Tregantle (weekends only until July 7), Praa Sands, Gwithian, Hayle Towans, Porthmeor, Sennen, Porthtowan, Perranporth, Fistral, Towan, Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth, Treyarnon, Constantine, Harlyn, Polzeath, Widemouth and Summerleaze.

From May 19: Seaton, Portreath, Poldhu Cove, Kennak, Godrevy, Upton Towans, Beach View, Mexico Towans, Porthminster, Gwenver, Porthcurno, Gyllyngvase, Chapel Porth, St Agnes, Perran Sands, Holywell Bay, Crantock, Great Western, Tolcarne, Porth, Porthcothan, Booby’s, Trevone, Trebarwith, Black Rock, Crooklets and Sandymouth.