RNLI lifeguards will be starting their peak season patrols on beaches in Norfolk and Suffolk from tomorrow with extra lifeguards in place to keep a watchful eye as the hot weather continues.*

In addition to the beaches that are already operating, eight further locations will come on board over the weekend.*

RNLI lifeguards will commence their seasonal service at Sheringham East, West Runton, East Runton, Cromer West, Hemsby, Great Yarmouth, Southwold South and Lowestoft North.

The charity's lifeguards, who operate on behalf of North Norfolk District Council, Great Yarmouth Borough Council and Waveney District Council, will be at their posts from 10am to 6pm daily until September 9.

Ninety-five pc of the role is preventative and the teams have completed a period of extensive training.

This ensures that every RNLI lifeguard has the vital skill-set to enable them to deal with everything from locating missing children through to performing major first-aid and lifesaving rescues.

RNLI lifeguard supervisor Luke Swift said: 'Following a comprehensive training programme the charity's lifeguards are in peak condition and they're really looking forward to returning to their posts.

'We always advise people to visit a lifeguarded beach as, whatever the weather, we'll be there to offer friendly safety advice such as always to swim between the red and yellow flags and information on tide times.

'It's great to see visitors enjoying the coast safe in the knowledge that if they do get into difficulty we'll be there to help.'

The charity is running its national water safety campaign Respect the Water to help people stay safe throughout the summer: RNLI.org/RespectTheWaterAdditional lifeguards will also be added to RNLI patrols already in operation since May at Sheringham West, Cromer East, Mundesley, Sea Palling, Gorleston, Lowestoft South and Southwold North in preparation for an increase in people visiting the seaside.

Sheringham West, Cromer East, Mundesley, Sea Palling, and Gorleston Beaches will continue their season up until Sunday, September 16.

Local authorities part fund the RNLI's costs, which helps to meet the cost of lifeguard wages.