Falmouth beachgoers have been warned to be responsible as lifeguard season at Gyllyngvase Beach come to an end this weekend.

If intending to use the water people are being encouraged to head to one of the 27 lifeguarded beaches across Devon and Cornwall with extended patrols into October.

Tom Mansell, RNLI Regional Lifesaving Lead said:

"2020 has been unique in many ways for everyone, it has also been one of the busiest summers for our lifeguards on the beaches in the south-west.

"Alongside locals who holidayed at home this year and regular staycationers, we had an influx of visitors who could not take their annual trip abroad and chose to get away to the south-west this summer. For our lifeguards, this meant more people on the beaches and in the water, even on days with poor weather.

"As we head into Autumn we are seeing this pattern continuing with hotels and holiday accommodation reporting higher than usual bookings for this time of year, and our lifeguards are recording numbers in the water also up in the first week of September compared to previous years.

"The RNLI usually provide a lifeguard service into October for those making the most of the mild autumn weather and in response to the situation we see unfolding this year we have worked with Cornwall Council and the private beach owners in Devon to either increase the level of lifeguard cover on beaches with October patrols already or add additional beaches to ensure that those wishing to use the water this autumn can do so safely."

After Sunday 27th September the following beaches will not have lifeguard cover:

Cornwall Seaton, Sharrow, Tregantle, Kennack, Gyllyngvase, Tolcarne, Porth, Portreath, St. Agnes, Perran Sands, Godrevy, Upton Towans, Beach View, Porthminster, Gwenver, Porthcothan, Booby's, Trevone, Trebarwith and Crooklets.

The RNLI issued the following advice:

"Those who enjoy walking and exploring the coastline should check the weather forecast and local tide times before setting out, and carry a means of communication.

"If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float. In an emergency dial 999, and ask for the Coastguard."

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