RNLI lifeguards start daily beach patrols in North Yorkshire

Between 10am and 6pm, the lifeguards will patrol six designated beaches over the first three weekends in May before expanding to a daily service that will operate until Sunday 6 September.

The beaches in North Yorkshire that will be monitored by RNLI lifeguards are Cayton Bay, Filey, Sandsend, Scarborough North Bay, Scarborough South Bay and Whitby.

From 11 July, Runswick Bay will also be included in the patrolled beach service.

The lifeguarding team in the North and East have been working hard to complete vital training and are looking forward to returning to the beaches full time.

RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor, Andrew Jamieson said: ‘We always advise people to visit a lifeguarded beach and to swim between the red and yellow flags. This year sees the RNLI lifeguarding service welcome in its 25-year anniversary, and we are thrilled to patrol several beaches in North Yorkshire while this important milestone is celebrated. It is great to see visitors enjoying the coast with the extra peace of mind of knowing that we are there should they need us.’

North Yorkshire Council Leader, Councillor Carl Les, said: ‘As we prepare to welcome families and other beach users to our much-loved beaches over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend and the summer months, we would urge everyone to pay close attention to safety signage and follow any advice or warning information provided by RNLI lifeguards.’

‘RNLI lifeguards are highly trained in all aspects of beach safety and are always happy to answer questions or offer expert guidance, so please don’t hesitate to speak to them if you need advice.’

He added: ‘If you see someone in trouble, or find yourself needing help, raise one arm and shout for assistance. It’s very important not to attempt a rescue yourself, as the situation can quickly become more dangerous and put you at risk as well.’When visiting the beach this summer remember:

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

· 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. Find out how here: Float To Live – What To Do In An Emergency – RNLI

To learn more about RNLI lifeguarded beaches visit: RNLI Lifeguards In The UK And Channel Islands

Notes to editors

· As RNLI lifeguards need to be physically on the beach during the patrolled hours, ready to respond to emergencies and prevent accidents, the RNLI can’t rely on volunteers to provide this cover seven days a week.

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

· Throughout 2026, the RNLI is celebrating the 25-year anniversary of the lifeguarding service.

RNLI media contacts

For more information please email Gillian Carmoodie at [email protected] or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336 789.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

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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.