A new lookout tower, which will enable lifeguards to keep people safe, is in place - and the RNLI has thanked the public for its support in getting it.

The RNLI has thanked supporters who backed its request to install a new, modernised lookout tower on Lyme Regis beach this summer.

The tower arrived this week ready for the lifeguards, who will be operating from July 7 until September.

Nigel Jones, the RNLI’s area lifesaving manager, said:’The RNLI would like to express its sincerest gratitude for all the local support for the establishment of a new lifeguard tower in Lyme Regis.

‘The new, temporary tower replaces the old unit which was at the end of its operational life and provides significant improvements for the delivery of the lifeguard service in Lyme Regis, including vastly improved visibility.  The lifeguards can now see over a very crowded beach to the water and beyond to the harbour wall which is a popular location for youngsters jumping into the sea.

‘It is also a more conspicuous facility which provides an extremely useful first aid and information service and a focal point for lost children, plus better more modern welfare facilities for the lifeguards.

‘Now that it is installed we are pleased how smart and professional it looks and our lifeguards are extremely excited about conducting their duties from it.’

The tower will be removed at the end of the season in September.

The RNLI initially made a request for the new hut to Lyme Regis Town Council back in February but it was refused.

The decision led to a public outcry and a petition was set up by Lyme resident Ryan Turner calling on councillors to rethink.

The petition, which gathered almost 700 signatures, was presented to the town council in March when councillors reversed their decision and gave the hut the go-ahead.