Visitors to the coast are being urged to stay well back from the water this weekend as strong winds and heavy rain are forecast.

The Met Office has issued a Yellow weather warning for both Friday and Saturday in the South West, and the RNLI is warning of potentially dangerous and changeable sea conditions.

Tidal surges, large surf and strong rip currents will be likely around the coastline, and surfers and bodyboarders are urged to stay out of the sea until conditions are calmer.

Henry Irvine, RNLI lead lifeguard supervisor, said: ‘When we experience severe weather such as this, especially during the summer when the region is busy with visitors, it is really important people take heed of our advice to keep themselves safe. If people want to go to the beach please choose one patrolled by RNLI lifeguards. The lifeguards on duty will be continually assessing the weather and sea conditions throughout the day and changing the flags on the beach accordingly. If you see a red flag at a lifeguarded beach, do not enter the water, as it is unsafe for any water activities. If you see somebody in trouble please call 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard.

Beachgoers may also see an orange windsock at an RNLI lifeguarded beach this weekend, which signals that there are offshore or strong winds, and inflatables should not be used as they could easily be dragged out to sea.