Lifeguards are set to return to Ryde and Sandown beaches from today (Monday, July 1).

Lifeguards will be back on duty under the auspices of the Waterside Community Trust.

Every day from 11am until 6pm, they'll be located behind The Big Kahuna in Ryde and in front of The Reef restaurant in Sandown.

Beachgoers should look for the red and yellow flags which designate safe swimming areas; a red flag means the water is too dangerous to swim.

Lifeguards will provide various services including first aid, helping find lost children, providing tourist information and enforcing by-laws.

They will also use a patrol boat or jet ski in the summer months to keep the bathing zone clear.

Todd Miller, beach manager, said: "If you are visiting either Ryde or Sandown this summer, please swim between the red and yellow flags and do come see us if you need any help or advice.

"We are also pleased to have beach wheelchairs available at both sites this year, for adults and children, so again please speak to the lifeguards if you would like to use one of our wheelchairs during your visit. Stay safe."