Beaches in Cornwall retaining weekend lifeguard patrols this autumn

Lifeguard patrols will remain in operation at eight beaches in Cornwall into the autumn and over the half term holidays. However, a number of patrols will be withdrawn elsewhere in the county from this weekend.

As the RNLI lifeguard season comes to an end this Sunday 27 September, the charity is urging people not to take risks, and only go to beaches with lifeguard cover.

Beaches with weekend and everyday lifeguard cover during half term Saturday October 17 to Sunday November 1

• Poldhu

• Porthcurno

• Treyarnon

• Sandymouth

• Hayle Towans

• Chapel Porth

• Holywell Bay

• Crantock

The RNLI has said that as hotels and holiday accommodation report higher than usual bookings for this time of year, lifeguards also recorded numbers of people in the water was up in the first week of September compared to previous years.

The charity usually provide a lifeguard service into October for those making the most of the mild autumn weather.

It's working with Cornwall Council 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.

Beaches where there will be NO lifeguard patrols from Sunday September 27

• Seaton

• Sharrow

• Tregantle

• Kennack

• Gyllyngvase

• Tolcarne

• Porth

• Portreath

• St. Agnes

• Perran Sands

• Godrevy

• Upton Towans

• Beach View

• Porthminster

• Gwenver

• Porthcothan

• Booby’s

• Trevone

• Trebarwith

• Crooklets

Beaches with full time lifeguard cover until November 1

• Tregonhawke

• Praa Sands

• Fistral

• Towan

• Watergate Bay

• Mawgan Porth

• Porthtowan

• Perranporth

• Gwithian

• Porthmeor

• Sennen

• Constantine

• Harlyn

• Polzeath

• Widemouth

• Summerleaze

Lifeguarding hours will be from 10am until 18pm until BST ends on 25 October after which service will be effected by failing light

"We’d really encourage anyone planning on going in the water to head to one of the lifeguarded beaches around the region where lifeguards will be on hand to offer advice and they can enjoy their activity safely.

"Where there are no flags, there is no lifeguard service. Those who can’t make it to a lifeguarded beach can help keep themselves safe by taking note of the safety signage at the entrance to the beach, going with a friend or telling someone on the shore where they are going, at the same time always being aware of the conditions and their own capabilities in the water. Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water.

"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’

Tom Mansell, RNLI Regional Lifesaving Lead