RNLI lifeguards are preparing to return to Dorset beaches ahead of the busy half-term holiday.

The charity’s lifeguards will be returning to patrol some of the county’s busiest beaches between May 30 to June 3, a week expected to be particularly busy for the coast.

Last year, RNLI lifeguards attended 1,744 incidents and saved 12 lives across beaches in the area.

Steven Chizlett, seasonal RNLI lifeguard supervisor in East Dorset, said: “The charity's lifeguards spend a great amount of time developing their lifesaving and first aid skills to help visitors enjoy their time on the beach.

“We have worked closely alongside partners and local communities to ensure the beaches and lifeguard units are ready and equipped for the 2022 season.

“Our teams are there to offer extra peace of mind to beachgoers so they can have a great day out in the sunshine.

“RNLI lifeguards will be patrolling eight beaches during the half-term holiday and are available to help anyone who gets into trouble.”

The patrols will be operated daily between 10am and 6pm on the following beaches: 

  • Sandbanks
  • Swanage
  • Branksome
  • Alum Chine
  • Durley Chine
  • Bournemouth Pier
  • Boscombe Pier
  • Southbourne

A peak season service will also begin on other east Dorset beaches in time for the school holidays.