'It is not safe to swim between the Rock Islands' off Sidmouth beach, that's the message from Sidmouth Lifeboat after safety concerns were raised at the weekend.

Sidmouth's independent lifeboat team has issued a warning after seeing a number of people swim out to the rock islands just off Sidmouth beach.

The rock islands are often surrounded by strong rip currents and the team at Sidmouth Lifeboat are concerned about the safety of swimmers particularly on days like yesterday (May 31) when strong easterly winds make conditions 'particularly dangerous'.

A spokesperson for Sidmouth Lifeboat said: "We are seeing too many people putting themselves and others at risk by swimming between the beach and the rock islands, where there are strong rip currents.

"Please DO NOT swim here.

"If you do find yourself caught in a rip, swim parallel to the shore until you are free of the rip and then head for shore. Always raise your hand and shout for help. If you see anyone else in trouble, call 999 and ask for the coastguard."

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency dealt with 160 incidents around the UK's coast on Saturday (May 30) alone and due to the coronavirus pandemic there are fewer resources available to help people who get into difficulty.

The spokesperson added: "Please take extra care if you are visiting our beautiful beach and don't put yourself, or our volunteer crew, at risk. If you are not sure, stay on shore."