Praa Sands will be patrolled by RNLI lifeguards to keep the public safe this half term holiday, as will several other Cornish beaches.

The charity has said it will be covering some of the county's busiest beaches over the holiday period, from October 21 to 29.

Community safety partner at the RNLI Steve Instance said: "It has been a busy 2017 season for our lifeguards who have worked hard to keep large numbers of beachgoers safe. They are well trained to deal with a whole range of scenarios from rescues in the water, to first aid incidents and lost children. We would encourage people who are planning to head to the coast this half term to visit a lifeguarded beach."

As well as Praa Sands, there will be lifeguards at Porthtowan, Perranporth, Gwithian, Porthmeor, Sennen, Fistral, Watergate Bay, Towan and Mawgan Porth, Polzeath, Widemouth and Summerleaze beaches.

For those who aren’t able to head to a lifeguarded beach, the RNLI has said it is important to keep stay safe by going with a friend or telling someone where they are going, being aware of the conditions, checking the tide times, and carrying a means of communication.

As part of the RNLI’s Respect the Water campaign the charity advises that you do not enter the water if you see someone in trouble, but call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard. If you have something that floats, throw it to them.

Anyone in difficulty in the water should try not to panic or fight against any currents. They should hold onto anything buoyant they have, call for help and raise their hand to attract attention and try to keep their head above water.

The public find out more about how to stay safe in and around the water by visiting RNLI.org/RespectTheWater