RNLI lifeguard patrols are due to finish on the majority of beaches across Cornwall this Sunday, September 27, as the summer draws to a close.

As in previous years, however, and due to increasing numbers of people looking to spend time at the beach out of season, the charity will continue to provide safety cover on a number of beaches at weekends in October and during the October school half term week, finishing on Sunday, November 1.

The beaches that will still be patrolled next month are: Praa Sands, Porthmeor, Gwithian, Porthtowan, Perranporth, Polzeath and Widemouth.

At Summerleaze, RNLI lifeguards are volunteering their time and working with volunteers from Bude Surf Lifesaving Club to provide the same cover in October. Fistral beach will have lifeguard cover every day throughout October and voluntary patrols at weekends in November.

Steve Instance, RNLI lifeguard manager, said: "It’s been another successful year for the RNLI lifeguards patrolling beaches in the south west. Our lifeguards have had a busy season dealing with a wide variety of incidents and have worked extremely hard to keep people safe on the beaches throughout the summer.

"We are once again pleased to be able to provide lifeguard cover on a number of the region’s busiest beaches into October, providing patrols for those looking enjoy the favourable surf conditions autumn usually brings.

"We encourage people heading to the coast at weekends and during half term to visit these beaches where the charity’s lifesavers will be on hand to keep people safe and offer useful advice on the conditions and hazards in the area.

"Those who can't make it to a lifeguarded beach can help keep themselves safe by taking note of the safety signage at the entrance to the beach, going with a friend or telling someone on the shore where they are going, and being aware of the conditions and their own capabilities in the water."