RNLI beach lifeguards in Pembrokeshire have been kept busy as thousands of people flock to the Welsh coast to enjoy the sunshine.

Lifeguards dealt with multiple incidents over the weekend of August 10-11 which saw thousands of people head to local beaches to enjoy soaring temperatures.

At Tenby Castle Beach, Lifeguard Willem Beck was on patrol when he spotted a child on a bodyboard drifting into a rip current. Willem made his way to the child and brought them back to shore.

Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for South Pembrokeshire Oliver Davies-Schofield said the incidents across Pembrokeshire over the weekend show the importance of visiting a lifeguarded beach.

“If you find yourself in difficulty in the water and you have something that floats like a surfboard, bodyboard or an inflatable, hang onto it.

“Otherwise, Float to Live. Tilt your head back with your ears submerged, relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands to help you stay afloat. Don’t worry if your legs sink, we all float differently. Spread your arms and legs to improve stability.

“When you have the energy, wave one arm and shout for help. Our lifeguards are always on the lookout and will come to your assistance.”

At Broad Haven beach, an inflatable paddleboard and kayaker drifted further and further out to sea owing to a strong offshore wind. Lifeguards helped the casulaties into the boat and safely to shore.

At Newgale, amid rip currents. RNLI lifeguards vigilantly patrolled to ensure people were aware of the risks, and to encourage people to swim between the flags. Lifeguards rescued a paddleboarder who had dislocated his shoulder and a small child struggling to return to shore on a bodyboard.

Lifeguard Supervisor for North Pembrokeshire Noah Harvatt said:

“When we fly the orange windsock, we strongly advise against taking inflatables of any kind in the water. Inflatables are very light and can quickly be blown out to sea. Whether it’s a paddleboard, kayak, dinghy or unicorn, they’re best saved for the swimming pool.

“If you find yourself or see anyone else in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”