RNLI reduces patrols as peak season ends

Patrols end at a number of beaches in Devon and Cornwall later as the peak summer season finishes

Beachgoers have been warned to choose a lifeguarded beach as patrols end at a number of beaches in Devon and Cornwall later as the peak summer season finishes.

The RNLI said there would be a reduced lifeguarding service at some beaches and there would be no more patrols at others this year.

It advised people to only swim between red and yellow flags.

Guy Botterill, the RNLI's regional lifeguard lead for the South West, said: "I would like to remind people that if you are planning on going to the coast to do so at a lifeguarded beach."

'Float to live'

The RNLI said patrols would end at 11 beaches in Cornwall including Northcott, Crackington Haven, Marazion, Carbis Bay, Mexico Towans, Porthkidney, Lusty Glaze, Porthleven, Gunwalloe, Freathy and Polurrian Cove.

Seven patrols would end at Devon beaches including Bigbury-On-Sea, Slapton Sands, Blackpool Sands, Hope Cove, Teignmouth, Dawlish Warren and Sandy Bay.

Mr Botterill advised people to "float to live" if they get in trouble by lying flat on your back with your ears submerged.