The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is in search of new recruits to work on some of the South West's most popular beaches.

Successful applicants receive world-class training in search and rescue, lifesaving and casualty care techniques, good rates of pay and the chance to develop valuable skills.

Henry Irvine, RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor says: "Working as a lifeguard is a unique and rewarding experience – you get to call the beach your office for a start! But far more importantly than that, you are there to make sure the public stay safe while enjoying their visit, and ultimately to help save lives at sea.

"This is a demanding job requiring commitment, skill and a clear head, but it’s also a job that is truly life changing. We’re looking for people with courage, determination and the ability to put their training into action and make the right decision if someone’s life is in danger. It is an incredibly rewarding role."

Whilst for many young people lifeguarding is a great summer job or be an ideal first step towards many career paths either within the RNLI or in related roles such as emergency services.

However, the role can be an attractive choice for anyone regardless of age or life situation.

Loic Doison, is 44 and works as a senior RNLI lifeguard on the beaches in South Devon during the summer (between Easter and October). In the winter he is able to look after his three-year-old son around some casual work and makes the most of not being tied to a job to get away for extended periods as a family.

Loic says the life experience older lifeguards can bring to the profession is really valued, he says;

"A great team is made up of diverse people with a mix of ages, genders and backgrounds which mean the team can draw on individual skills or attributes to face any number of different situations and learn from each other.

"I find that older people have more tools in their armoury to deal with difficult or unusual situations using skills from previous jobs or circumstances.

"Whatever your age, lifeguarding is a perfect role for someone who enjoys being part of a team, who likes talking to and helping people, someone who likes being and working outdoors and has some experience of the beach and sea environment."

At the forefront of the RNLI’s lifesaving work, the charity’s lifeguards responded to over 15,500 incidents and helped over 24,000 people in 2017.

Find out more about how you can make a difference and apply to be part of our amazing lifesaving team at https://summerjobs.rnli.org/become-a-lifeguard