LIFEGUARDS will be back on our beaches tomorrow to protect swimmers over the Easter period.

RNLI lifeguards will be out at Bournemouth East, Bournemouth West, Boscombe East and Sandbanks beaches after weeks of refresher training, keeping an eagle-eye on the waves between 10am and 6pm, until Sunday, April 23.

The charity warned that while, with the weather getting warmer, a dip in the sea might seem appealing, the water was still very cold.

RNLI lifeguard supervisor Mike Winter said: "We hope people will head down to the coast and enjoy our wonderful beaches now the weather is warming up a little.

"If you do make a trip down to the beach please come and say hello to the lifeguards who will be more than happy to help.

"If you’re going to take the plunge and swim in the sea make sure you’re wearing a good wetsuit or drysuit. Keeping warm in cold weather can take a lot of energy, so fatigue can be an issue, plus watch out for the wind chill factor – even a slight breeze can have a dramatic effect on how cold it feels.

"Conditions can also be changeable so please bring appropriate clothing and be ready for all weathers and if you see someone in trouble in the water don’t attempt to rescue them yourself, as you could also be putting yourself in more danger."

The charity is also seeking new lifeguards. To apply visit rnli.org.uk/workonthebeach.