RNLI lifeguards start daily beach patrols in North Tyneside

Between 10am and 6pm, the lifeguards will patrol five designated beaches over the second last weekend in May before expanding to a daily service that will operate until Sunday 6 September.

The beaches in North Tyneside that will be monitored by RNLI lifeguards are Cullercoats, King Edward’s Bay, Tynemouth Longsands, Whitley Bay and Whitley Bay North.

Then, from 18 July, Tynemouth Longsands North 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, Sean Mills said: ‘Following a stringent training programme our charity’s lifeguards are really looking forward to returning to their posts. Come rain or shine 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.’

He added: ‘We always advise people to visit a lifeguarded beach. It’s great to see visitors enjoying the coast with the extra peace of mind of knowing that we are there should they need us.’

North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor, Karen Clark said: ‘Our award-winning coastline is one of North Tyneside’s greatest assets, and as we head into the summer season, the safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority. We are delighted to welcome the RNLI lifeguards back to our beaches, from Whitley Bay to King Edward’s Bay.'

‘The presence of the RNLI provides reassurance and expert safety advice to those enjoying our waters. The service is vital for local tourism, giving families the confidence to visit our shores knowing that professional help and first aid are at hand.’

She added: ‘It is also a particularly special year as the RNLI celebrates 25 years of its lifeguarding service. We are incredibly proud of our long-standing partnership with the RNLI and thank their teams for the important work they do keeping residents and visitors safe throughout the summer season.’

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 online

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

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.

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok 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.