Coastguards have issued a plea for parents to keep a close eye on their children at the beach this weekend after responding to numerous calls for help to find missing children yesterday.

 Ian Guy, Duty Controller for HM Coastguard said: "It’s always a huge worry when children go missing near the beach – not just for the parents but for our Coastguards as well.

"There’s always a possibility that children may get into difficulties even in shallow water or injure themselves on slippery rocks.

‘We are urging parents and guardians to keep a close eye on their children at the beach and know where they are at all times.

"If you can, head for a life guarded beach and agree a recognisable meeting point that’s easy to find. Show your children the nearest lifeguard station or a recognisable location and tell them to head there if they get lost.

"Make sure you tell the Coastguard or a lifeguard immediately if you lose sight of your child. Busy beaches can disorientate people, especially children, so take advantage of local wristband schemes wherever possible."

 HM Coastguard are urging members of the public to visit their coastal safety website www.gov.uk/coastguardsafety which gives beach goers top tips on how to stay safe on the coast and links to life guarded beaches.