Eastbourne residents urged away from beaches as lifeguard season is delayed

The decision, made by Eastbourne Borough Council, means the beach will not be patrolled until current lockdown measures ease, according to officials.

The lifeguard season was due to start at the beginning of May, but the council has said their decision was made to ‘both ensure the safety of staff and also to reflect the current restrictions which prevent travel for leisure purposes’.

Eastbourne Borough Council’s Margaret Bannister said, “Our team are very much prepared for the season and ready to go, as soon as it is safe to do so.

“In the meantime we urge everyone to stay safe and only exercise near your own home, please do not make any special trips to the beach.”

A council spokesperson said seafront notices will advise those exercising in the area that lifeguard service are unavailable, and swimming or any sea-based activities are not recommended under any circumstances at the moment.

The spokesperson said, “The lifeguard service runs each year from May until September 30 on the beaches between the Wish Tower and the Pier.

“As soon as the service is resumed, lifeguards will be on duty daily, flying the bathing flag to provide advice on sea conditions, as well as providing first aid, lost property, safety patrols and emergency rescues.”

The postponement follows the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s (RNLI) decision not to deploy their own lifeguard teams to 240 beaches around the UK.

For more information, visit VisitEastbourne.com/seafront.

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