Safety at a Norfolk beach has been stepped up with the launch of a new lifeguard service.

Two lifeguards will be stationed on Wells beach between 10am and 6pm every day from today until September 7. The service is being launched by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

Beach lifeguards will work closely with the existing National Coastwatch Institution, Wells beach patrol and the RNLI lifeboat services.

Vince Pank, RNLI lifeguard manager, said: 'We're delighted to be extending the RNLI's lifeguard service to Wells beach.

'It's a beautiful stretch of coastline that attracts tourists and locals in large numbers.

'We hope the presence of our beach lifeguards will encourage even more people to come down and enjoy this stretch of coastline safely.'

The RNLI lifeguards will be providing the service in association with North Norfolk District Council and The Holkham Estate.

The RNLI wants to recruit new lifeguards in Norfolk.

It is looking for people who are aged 16 or over, fit and healthy and strong swimmers. But before you can apply to become an RNLI beach lifeguard, you must first obtain a surf lifesaving qualification.

Week-long courses are being held to obtain this qualification between August 11 and August 16.

They will be held in Cromer by the North Norfolk Surf Life Saving Club and in Gorleston by the Gorleston Surf Life Saving Club.

For more information contact vincent_pank@rnli.org.uk or call 07917 581567.

RNLI lifeguards patrol 11 beaches in Norfolk during the summer. Last year Norfolk's RNLI lifeguards saved eight lives, rescued 54 people and dealt with 989 incidents, ranging from searching for missing children to water rescues.

Are you helping to support Wells lifeboat? Email adam.lazzari@archant.co.uk