RNLI lifeguards will take to their posts for the first time at Rest Bay this Saturday (28 May) as the charity continues to roll out a lifeguarding service on Porthcawl beaches.

Working in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council, RNLI lifeguards will be ready at their posts between 10am-6pm throughout the bank holiday weekend.

RNLI lifeguards will be working alongside Porthcawl volunteer lifeboat crew as well as local surf lifesaving clubs to help provide a safety service on the popular beach.

Rest Bay is one of four Porthcawl beaches to offer an RNLI lifeguard service this summer.  RNLI lifeguards have been patrolling Coney and Trecco Bay since 30 April and a safety service will launch on Pink Bay from early July.

Jacob Davies, RNLI Lifeguard Manager said:

‘The RNLI lifeguards have now all completed their training and are looking forward to opening the doors to the new unit at Rest Bay this weekend.

‘We encourage those thinking of a trip to the coast over the summer months to always visit a lifeguarded beach and if you’re heading into the sea please respect the water and swim between the red and yellow flags.  The lifeguards are fully trained in all aspects of beach safety; if you have any questions please approach a lifeguard who will be more than happy to help or offer expert advice.’

Last year RNLI lifeguards assisted over 900 people on 32 of Wales’ busiest beaches.  This year the charity have increased the safety patrols to 39 beaches across the Welsh coast.

For more tips on how to stay safe on the coast this summer visit the RNLI websitewww.rnli.org.uk/beachsafety or download the charity’s beach safety mobile app.