AS the summer holidays get under way, lifeguards trained to a higher standard than ever are patrolling beaches in Hartlepool.

The seven-strong Hartlepool Borough Council team, which covers the beach at Seaton Carew and both the Block Sands and Fish Sands on the Headland, began work on Monday, and will remain on duty until September 8.

Previously, the lifeguards have been trained to Bronze Life-Saving Medallion standard, but from this year they can only be considered for a job if they have the Royal Life-Saving Society's National Beach Lifeguard Qualification.

Head lifeguard, Simon Athey, 23, said: "With the life-saving medallion the training is all pool based, but the beach lifeguard qualification demands a higher standard of fitness and technique. You have to do a 400 metre run, a 200 metre swim in the sea, and several 200 metre tows using a rescue buoy."

Mr Athey, who is in his fifth year as a lifeguard, urged people to be sensible when on the beach.

The extra cost of the improved lifeguard training is being funded by the council, following a decision by the community services and safety board to plough an extra £27,500 into Seaton Carew, during 2000/01, bringing its budget for the year to £50,000, to ensure there is no reduction in service during the holiday season.

Tony Davison, of the council's recreation section, said: "The safety of people using the town's beaches is of paramount importance and the investment in the lifeguard service reflects that."