THE Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is in search of new recruits to work on some of the south west’s most popular beaches.

Applications have now opened for beach lifeguards for 2019.

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

Successful applicants receive 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, said: “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 is also a job that is truly life changing.

“We are 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 an ideal first step towards many career paths, including to continue to work for the RNLI or a career in the emergency services, the role can also be a choice for anyone regardless of age or life situation.

Loic Doison is 44 and works as a senior RNLI lifeguard during the summer, between Easter and October, and in the winter, he is able to look after his three-year-old son around casual work.

He said: “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 the perfect role for someone who enjoys being part of a team, who likes talking to and helping people, someone who like being and working outdoors and has some experience of the beach and sea environment.”

For more information, visit www.summerjobs.rnli.org