Beach safety will be more important than ever, the RNLI has warned, with lifeguards set to return to Ceredigion as millions choose to holiday by the sea.

RNLI in Wales has launched a new safety campaign after what it said were “stark figures” which revealed 30 million people are planning to hit the UK coast this summer.

With uncertainty over foreign holidays and international travel, the RNLI is predicting this summer will be the busiest ever on the Welsh coast, as Covid restrictions are eased and people choose to ‘staycation’, and said it is “taking steps to ensure their safety.”

The lifesaving charity and HM Coastguard are launching the safety campaign ahead of the bank holiday weekend and half-term holidays, urging people to choose lifeguarded beaches when they visit the coast.

In Ceredigion, RNLI lifeguards are currently providing a service at weekends at Llangrannog and at Borth, which will become a regular daily service from the half term holiday running until September.

Lifeguards will also provide cover over the school summer holidays at Aberystwyth South, Tresaith and Aberporth.

In a survey commissioned by the RNLI, 75 per cent of those questioned expect to visit a UK beach or the coast between April and September, with around half of that number likely to do so three or more times.

A significantly higher proportion of the public (36 per cent) also said they plan to visit the coast more than usual this year, compared to 2020 (24 per cent).

Chris Cousens, RNLI water safety lead in Wales said: “We are expecting this summer to be the busiest ever for our lifeguards and volunteer lifeboat crews in Wales and the survey figures back that up.

“With its stunning scenery and spectacular beaches, we are certain people will flock to the Welsh coastline and want people to enjoy it.

“We do however urge everyone to respect the water, think about their own safety and know what to do in an emergency.

“Our main advice is to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.

“RNLI lifeguards will be patrolling around 245 beaches this summer to offer advice on how to stay safe and they are also there to help anyone who gets into trouble.

“Whether you’re at a lifeguarded beach or not, look out for safety signage and seek advice on safe places to swim, keep your children under supervision at all times, avoid swimming alone where possible and know to alert the lifeguards or call 999 or 112 and ask for Coastguard in an emergency.

“Coastal areas provide a great opportunity to enjoy fresh air and open space but they can be an unpredictable environment.”

Not everyone who finds themselves in trouble in the water, expected to even get wet.

RNLI statistics for Wales show people enjoying a walk and getting cut off by the tide caused almost 10 per cent of all lifeboat launches over the last decade, with lifeguards rescuing hundreds of stranded people each year.