THE lifeguards are so important. What will happen if someone gets into difficulty now? Money shouldn't matter when lives are at risk.'

They were the words of a Hartlepool resident, quoted in The Northern Echo two years ago when it was announced that lifeguards would no longer patrol local beaches because of funding cuts by Hartlepool Borough Council.

They are words which were to prove tragically prophetic and last night the council was facing calls to review the decision following the death of eight-year-old Jordan Moon at Seaton Carew on Saturday.

The tragedy again highlights how dangerous the sea can be and how easy it is to be lulled into a false sense of security.

We acknowledge that the financial squeeze on local authorities means that difficult and unpopular decisions have to be taken. But when tourism is such an important element of the marketing of an area, safety must be placed at the top of the agenda.

And as Jordan's family try to come to terms with his loss, there must be an urgent review of safety at Seaton Carew.

Now we need some football

AFTER four years of anticipation and controversy, the first game is over at Darlington's magnificent new football stadium.

The town responded to an important day in its history by turning out in force with a heartening attendance of 11,600.

It shows that there is potential for the club to grow if it can find success on the pitch.

There were undeniable teething problems over traffic, tickets and staffing, all of which have to be resolved quickly, but the stadium itself drew universal praise.

The biggest worry surrounds the team after a desperately disappointing performance.

No matter how good the stadium may be, the crowds won't come unless the football is good, and so far the signs on the pitch are ominous.

As we said on Saturday, the real challenge is only just beginning.