'Surf lifesavers' help RNLI to keep people safe

The volunteers have been working alongside the RNLI to help save stranded swimmers. Credit: ITV West Country

  • A new club of lifesavers are assisting RNLI guards in rescue operations

A group of 'surf lifesavers' have carried out 86 emergency rescues around South West coasts this year.

The volunteers - who love to surf - are dedicating some of their time to keeping people safe, working alongside the RNLI to help save stranded swimmers.

Their patrols have now been registered officially, and are carry out duties when RNLI guards are off duty.

Many of them gained the professional skills they need to save lives from the age of 14.

The volunteers are now running registered patrols at 17 beaches and have already saved more than 230 people across the country.

They can even be called on by the Coastguard to assist in search rescue operations.

First and foremost, surf life savers are encouraging people to stay safe while at sea:

Find out more about Surf Lifesaving GB.