Be safe by the sea

The RNLI in Dorset is urging people to be safe by the sea this bank holiday.

Lifeguards across the South West were responsible for saving the lives of 80 people last year alone.

Dorset is expected to see an influx of visitors, with many perhaps not being confident swimmers.

The RNLI charity's volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts.

The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands.

The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service.

Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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