With a forecast of warm weather and sunshine, RNLI lifeguards are preparing their kit ahead of schedule as they return to some of West Wales’ busiest beaches to offer voluntary safety patrol over the May Day bank holiday weekend.

RNLI lifeguards will be working alongside local Surf Lifesaving Clubs to offer a voluntary safety service on New Quay beach in Ceredigion, as well as Pembrokeshire’s Whitesands and Newgale beach over the May Day bank holiday weekend. The charity’s lifeguards will join local volunteers to offer safety advice and assistance on the beaches from 10am-6pm throughout the bank holiday weekend.

Philip Davies, West Wales RNLI Lifeguard Manager said:

‘With a forecast of sun and warm weather, hopefully families will choose to enjoy their May Bank holiday on Welsh beaches this weekend.

'We’d urge anyone planning on visiting a beach over the bank holiday to check local information in advance and head to a lifeguarded beach. Before setting out, check tide times, read local safety signs or ask a lifeguard to make sure you know the times of high and low water. Don’t judge the length of time you have left to get back to the beach by just looking at the waterline, the tide moves very quickly and it can be very deceptive.’

Philip continues:

‘Even though it’s forecasting sunshine and warm weather.remember that the water is still very cold this time of year. Conditions can change dramatically whilst out on the coast so please make sure to come prepared when visiting the beach this weekend.’