Coast guards paddled through waves to help surfers struggling with big waves in Scotland.

Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) Lifeguards at Coldingham Bay said they plunged into the water seven times on July 26 to assist surfers, bodyboarders and swimmers who had been caught out by the currents.

A 'decent swell' had been affecting southeast Scotland last week, creating hazardous conditions for paddleboarders, the RNLI said.

RNLI Lifeguard Matt Gibbons said: ‘Although there aren't many in Scotland, you should always try to visit a lifeguarded beach. There, the Lifeguards will set up safe zones for different water sports.'

‘The red and yellow flags indicate the area in which it is safest to swim and bodyboard, whilst the black and white flags are for surfers, paddleboarders and kayaks or other hard craft.

‘Please try to stay within your zone, and listen to lifeguards when they ask you to relocate to the correct zone. They are doing this to prevent you getting caught by a rip current or being hurt by another craft.

‘Stay within your depth and be aware of how you are drifting with the currents. If you find yourself in a current try to stand up, don't panic. If you need help, keep hold of your board or float on your back, raise a hand and shout for help; a Lifeguard will come to you.'

Senior Lifeguard Rose McTavish, who went to the aid of a stand-up paddleboarder around 400 metres offshore, said: ‘The power in the waves have caused a number of people to get caught out. Please think twice before heading out on your paddleboard in these conditions.'

‘If you do head out we recommend paddleboarders wear a wetsuit, buoyancy aid, leash and have a waterproofed means for calling for help. If you are going for a paddle along the coast, you can log your plan with the Coastguard maritime rescue coordination centre for your area.'

The swell was forecast to drop over the next few days, but the RNLI said yellow and red flags should still be heeded.