LIFEGUARDS will be patrolling Dorset’s beaches over the bank holiday weekend.

The RNLI is providing cover at Bournemouth East, Bournemouth West and Sandbanks for the remainder of the Easter holidays.

The charity is also advising beachgoers to be aware of the potential dangers created on many beaches during the winter storms. RNLI lifeguard manager Brett Shepherd said: “In places, sand dunes have been washed away leaving sheer sand cliffs. On other beaches, access points to and from the beach have changed whilst shifting sand has left deep channels that in turn create strong rip currents.”

He added: “We’d urge anyone planning on visiting a beach over the Easter holidays to check local information in advance and head to a lifeguarded beach.

“Swimmers should ensure that they swim between the red and yellow flags, which mark out the safest area to swim and are patrolled by lifeguards.

“Please take heed of the safety signage and any advice offered by the lifeguards on duty.”