BUDE’S RNLI Lifeguards have issued an urgent plea to those attending the beach, in an effort to ensure their lifesaving work can be carried out.

As the summer season approaches, the town’s crew has asked that visitors and locals enjoying the area’s impressive coastline ensure that they do not block the access routes used by the lifeboat.

A spokesperson from the crew explained: “With the recent heatwave bringing huge numbers of visitors and locals down to enjoy our beautiful coastline here in Bude, we’d like to issue a friendly reminder from everyone at Bude RNLI.

“Our station car park and access routes are currently extremely busy throughout the day. These access points are the only route our volunteer crew have to reach the lifeboat during an emergency launch.”

The team has reminded beachgoers that the blockage could mean fatal consequences.

“If access becomes blocked or traffic cannot move,” the spokesperson continued, “it can delay our crews getting to people who may be in danger at sea.

“We kindly ask everyone visiting the area to please park responsibly, avoid blocking entrances or access lanes, and help keep traffic flowing around the lifeboat station at all times.”

However, despite the urgent message, the teams have expressed their thanks for the ongoing support they receive from the local community, and most importantly have reminded people to stay safe around the water.

The spokesperson concluded: “The support we receive from both the local community and visitors is hugely appreciated and plays a massive part in helping us continue saving lives at sea.

“Thank you for always supporting your local RNLI crew and helping us stay ready to respond when the pager goes off. Most importantly, enjoy your time here in beautiful Bude, stay safe around the water, and where possible choose lifeguarded beaches.”