Congratulations to Phil Oakley who has now qualified as one of the volunteer watchkeepers for Exmouth NCI.

A spokesman for Exmouth NCI said: "Phil is joining a busy team here in Exmouth and we look forward to working with him. Welcome on board the team, Phil."

Exmouth NCI is part of the UK search and rescue and is a declared asset of the HM Coastguard.

While NCI Exmouth maintain Eyes Along the Coast 52 weeks of the year, watchkeeping hours are adjusted to reflect the day light hours and the activities taking place on local beaches and inshore waters.

From March 27 they open at 8.30am until 6.30pm and from May 15 from 8am to 7.30pm. During the peak Summer Months we further increase with coastal water safety advice for swimmers, paddleboarders and beach users.

Find full details of how to become a Watchkeeper on Exmouth NCI’s web site www.exmouthcoastwatch.co.uk