Playful dolphin puts on a show for visitors at Fistral beach

RNLI lifeguard, Arron Evans, spotted two swimmers at the south end of Fistral beach who had stopped to witness lots of splashing around them. Arron picked up a rescue board and paddled towards the pair when he also spotted lots of splashing followed by a dolphin leaping out of the water. The dolphin appeared to be very playful but Arron wanted to make sure both the swimmers and dolphin were safe.

Arron says:

‘The dolphin appeared very friendly and playful and put on quite a display for everyone. Being so close to such a beautiful creature is very rare and I can only count on one hand how many times I’ve seen a dolphin in real-life and have been a lifeguard for over 10 years!

‘As much as you may want to get really close to such amazing sea life, it is important to remember that they are wild mammals and can be unpredictable. Giving them space and not harassing them is the safest way to enjoy their company. Be mindful that the sea is their natural habitat so being respectful and keeping your distance is advised.’

With temperatures heating up again over the weekend this often results in warmer sea temperatures which dolphins tend to enjoy, so it is important to be aware of more possible occurrences and to always be respectful and stay safe.

The RNLI is urging anyone visiting the coast this summer to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by following beach safety advice:

· Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.

· Check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage to understand local risks.

· Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water – don’t allow your family to swim alone.

· If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float.

· In an emergency dial 999/112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Notes to editors

Please see attached photo of RNLI lifeguard Arron Evans with a dolphin at Fistral beach, Cornwall – credit Melissa King.

To find your nearest lifeguarded beach, please visit: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeguarded-beaches

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Becky Bright, RNLI Media Engagement Placement (South West) on 07929 673281 or [email protected] or Amy Caldwell, Regional Media Manager on 07920 818807 or [email protected]. Alternatively, please contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789 or [email protected].

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.