A campaign has been launched to recruit beach lifeguards for the summer school holidays at a North-East resort following the death of an eight-year-old boy who was swept out to sea last August.

Hartlepool Borough Council's cabinet agreed last month to re-instate lifeguards on beaches in the town from July this year. They will cover Seaton Carew along with the Block Sands and Fish Sands on the Headland everyday between July 17 and August 31.

The council withdrew the lifeguard service in 2001 due to financial pressures. However, following the drowning of Jordan Moon, 5,000 residents petitioned the authority seeking the re-introduction of the lifeguard service.

The council sought advice from the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) and councillors have taken their recommendations on board. As well as lifeguards, who will be paid £273 for a 40 hour week, there will be beach lifeguard supervisors and the appointment of a beach safety officer, all year round.

The authority will also be investing in vital rescue equipment including an all terrain vehicle, a jet ski and VHF radios linked to the coastguard.

Stuart Drummond, mayor of Hartlepool, said: "I am delighted the council has agreed to re-introduce the lifeguard service and we are now starting to recruit for the summer season.

"Beach lifeguards will have a very responsible job and the rate of pay which has been set reflects this.

"I am sure there will be lots of local people equipped to carry out this important role."

All lifeguards must hold a current National Beach Lifeguard qualification, but if suitable candidates do not possess this, they will receive full training prior to the scheme being introduced.

The recruitment campaign specifically asks for people who are strong swimmers, alert and observant, good communicators, can be relied on in an emergency and are available for work throughout the summer school holidays.

Application forms and further details can be obtained from the council by contacting (01429) 523533 (answerphone), by e-mail personnel@hartlepool.gov.uk or applying online at www1.sector1.net

For an informal chat contact James Gilchrist on (01429) 523538 or Tony Davison on (01429) 284584.