RNLI lifeguards returned to Ceredigion beaches over the weekend and are urging people to think about their safety and respect the water.

Lifeguards have started daily safety patrols on three more beaches – Borth, Clarach and Aberystwyth South – in good time for the summer school holidays.

RNLI lifeguards have been on duty on Llangrannog and New Quay beaches since May and Aberystwyth North, Tresaith and Aberporth since earlier this month, giving safety advice and assistance to beachgoers, including rescuing a teenage boy stranded on rocks at Llangrannog beach.

Now Michael Vincent, RNLI lifeguard supervisor, expects the start of peak season to usher in a busy period for his team.

He said: “This time of year always sees more people venturing to the coast and enjoying our beautiful beaches. We would encourage everyone planning a trip to the seaside to visit a lifeguarded beach and always swim between the red and yellow flags.”

Lifeguards will be on duty daily between 10am and 6pm until the end of the season on 3 September.

The lifeguard service is provided in partnership with Ceredigion County Council.

Cllr Gareth Lloyd, Cabinet member with responsibility for tourism, said: “If the recent fine weather continues for the rest of the summer, Ceredigion’s beaches are going to be extremely popular.

“I’m pleased that beach users will again this year be able to enjoy some of Ceredigion’s most popular bathing beaches in the safe hands of the RNLI lifeguard service and I urge everyone to take heed of any advice provided by the lifeguards.”

See this week’s south editions for the full story, in shops and online tomorrow