RNLI lifeguards have been kept busy during the warmer weather, performing first aids and rescues, with the lifeboat receiving a couple of shouts throughout June.

On the first day of the May half term, a man fell from the cliff on the northern side of Crooklets beach. Lifeguards provided medical assistance alongside paramedics, and luckily the individual sustained only one injury: a deep cut to his head.

At Widemouth, Summerleaze, Crooklets and Sandymouth, RNLI lifeguards have been out on rescue boards to assist several bathers.

Dangerous bathing conditions are still present across all of these beaches, especially towards the lower stages of the tide. To help stay safe, it is advised to swim on a lifeguarded beach between the red and yellow flags.

On Saturday (July 9), peak season lifeguard patrols will begin. For the following eight weeks, extra RNLI lifeguards will be on the main beaches, as well as providing a daily service on Northcott and Crackington Haven.

To cover this busy period, six new lifeguards have been recruited by the RNLI from Bude Surf Lifesaving Club. The club has contributed many well-trained new lifeguards to the RNLI service over recent years.

At Bude Lifeboat Station, the crew received a couple of shouts in the area. On Sunday, June 5, two people were cut off by the tide in Crackington Haven, with the casualties being recovered from the rocks and taken safely ashore by the lifeboat.

On Saturday, June 12, the lifeboat was requested to assist a search for a missing person at 3.10am, but the lifeboat was stood down just before launching.

As well as incidents and rescues, there have been a number of events taking place during June, with everyone getting involved, both young and old.

The Bude Lifeboat six mile run took place on Wednesday, June 15, and had a successful turnout. Up to 350 adults ran the course, and 250 school children ran one mile.

For the fourth year, Mark Jenkin of Bideford AAC won in 32 minutes and 13 seconds, more than three minutes ahead of second placed Marc Smerdon of East Cornwall Harriers, who finished in 35 minutes 29 seconds. In third place, Newquay Road Runners Jonny Colaco finished in 35 minutes and 31seconds.

The school’s trophy went to Stratton Primary School, with an impressive 66 entries. The non-affiliated team trophy went to Outdoor Adventure, with the Bude RNLI Crew team coming second.

RNLI lifeguards provided first aid cover and some of the crew did the barbecue. The event was organised by Bude RATS and the race director was Stephen Hutchinson.

Plans for Lifeboat Week, due to take place during the late August bank holiday, are progressing well. Look out for programmes and details on Facebook closer to the time.