Sidmouth's beach lifeguards are starting their full-time service earlier than planned this year.

The decision comes after the recent hot weather and an expected rise in people using the town's beaches.

The lifeguards have already been on duty at weekends since the end of May, but will now be on patrol seven days a week from today (Thursday 21 July).

The full-time service will continue until the end of the school holidays at the beginning of September as planned.

The free beach lifeguard service is provided by Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat, in conjunction with East Devon District Council and its beach safety officer. Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat said it has also been extremely grateful for the help and support of the RNLI.