LIFEGUARDS were forced to close Summer­leaze Beach for a short while on Wednesday, August 5, following a large beach rescue at Crooklets.

Over 20 people had to be rescued from the sea at Crooklets, after they became caught in a rip current. RNLI lifeguards had to call for extra support from neighbouring Sum­mer­leaze, and as such, Summerleaze Beach had to be closed whilst lifeguards redeployed to Crooklets to help with the situation at approximately 2pm.

Mini Fry, Bude lifeguard supervisor, commented on the incident and said: "We'd advise anyone planning to swim, to visit a lifeguarded beach and it is really important with the large surf and water movement that bathers make an effort to stay within the red and yellow flags and keep within waist depth water."