Qualified beach lifeguards are needed in West Dorset for the upcoming summer season.

The RNLI is recruiting and has now opened applications for 2021.

This year, the charity will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of its lifeguard service.

Successful applicants will receive lifesaving training as well as develop valuable skills for a future career.

Charlotte Mansell, 23, began lifeguarding in West Dorset and Weymouth in 2017 and is now a qualified primary school teacher. As the peak lifeguard season coincides with the school holidays, she continues to work shifts as a casual lifeguard in the summer.

"Being a lifeguard has given me the opportunity to work in an amazing environment, help my local community and develop a wide range of skills," she said.

"I've improved my fitness and also get to promote education and awareness about water safety, which is crucial when living along the coast.

"I really enjoy the difference in each of the beaches in Weymouth and West Dorset. Each one has its own dangers and you have to think differently on every beach to be able to make quick decisions and react to unfolding events."

Simon Davis, 19, has been lifeguarding for two seasons and works during the summer break from his degree in sports and exercise science.

He said: "I decided to lifeguard as I wanted a new summer job, I had a few friends who had already done some seasons on the beach and they told me how good an experience it was.

"Since I started lifeguarding, I have learnt vital water rescue and first aid skills, how to crew the rescue boat and use other beach equipment, along with professional communication skills with members of the public.

"The best part of being a lifeguard is the feelings of responsibility and satisfaction you get from almost every shift. In 2020, I rescued a young boy who had a seizure whilst bodyboarding. This was a multi-agency incident including the air ambulance, multiple land ambulances and the coastguard."

Last summer, RNLI lifeguard Jamie Hannaford saved a four-year-old girl's life at West Bay's East Beach. He saw her head going under the water and quickly ran into the sea to bring her to safety.

Alice Higgins, lead lifeguard supervisor for the area, said: "If you are looking for a unique and rewarding summer job, lifeguarding could be the perfect opportunity for you. The job is demanding and requires a clear head, commitment and dedication.

"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.

"Those applying will need to have a valid International Life Saving Federation (ILS) recognised beach lifeguard qualification. If you would like to do a Beach Lifeguard Course, please contact your local Surf Life Saving Club - Branksome SLSC, Weymouth SLSC or Sidmouth SLSC.

"The skills our lifeguards gain can be an ideal first step towards many career paths or offer invaluable experience for those studying or training in a similar field. We've had lifeguards who are now qualified police officers and paramedics, along with those who are volunteering for other rescue agencies."

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