A SWIM zone has been marked out at East Looe Beach as part of upgraded safety measures.

The East Looe Town Trust (ELTT), which owns and manages the beach, had put up new signage indicating the swimming zone between the Banjo Pier and the rocks to the far left of the beach – but there was nothing in the water to mark out this area.

Now, yellow marker buoys will be deployed between May and September, not only indicating a safe swimming zone, but also showing that there is a ban on jet skis, boats and kite surfing inside this area of water.

While historically East Looe Beach has an excellent safety record, the Trust says it’s responding to changes in the way that beaches are used, and new conflicting activities that could increase risks. Looe Harbour Commissioners, RNLI and other emergency services, and clubs are permitted to have vessels inside the zone should they require for operational purposes.

ELTT chairman Brian Galipeau said: “We aim to maintain our beach as a safe place to swim. Only authorised craft, such as the sailing and rowing clubs, are allowed to enter.

“Even within the zone, swimmers should never go beyond their capabilities and are reminded that no lifeguards are in operation at the beach.”

He added: “Thanks to the Harbour Master for arranging for her staff to help the Trust maintenance team make the most of the low tide to tether the swim zone buoys.”