SEAFRONT bosses claim the summer of 2009 is set to be one of the busiest for beach patrol teams in Clacton, Frinton and Walton.

Tendring Council’s beach patrol and seafront wardens say one of the largest increases in incidents has been rescuing swimmers.

So far they have helped rescue 27 swimmers, compared to just three in 2008.

Over the past ten days the team at Clacton have brought ashore four boys and four girls – aged from just six.

Over the same period they also dealt with rescues involving inflatables. They have taken to the water in kayaks and their patrol boat to deal with others in trouble, as well as giving out advice and guidance.

The beach patrol was involved in the search for the body of ten-year-old Stella Akanbi, from Milton Keynes, who drowned off Clacton on August 16.

Kevin Harkin, head of leisure services, said he was proud of the efforts of all the team.

He said: “The sun has shone and people have flocked to the coast – which is obviously what we want to see.

“However, with more people on the beach and in the sea the team is put under extra pressure and ends up with more incidents to deal with.

“They have all been fantastic and helped save many people from danger.”