Working with the RNLI Lifeguards

I was luckily enough to be asked to make a film for the North Devon RNLI. They cover several beaches around the Barnstaple area - some of which are among the most popular in the UK. Every summer, tens of thousands of people enjoy the beaches which are great for everyone from families to surfers.

The film needed to show off how great the beaches were, whilst at the same time raising awareness of anything that people should look out for - fast currents (rip currents), underwater wreckage and other hazards which people may not be aware of.

I got to spend two days with the RNLI lifeguard team - the first day we did some interviews and shot footage of each of the beaches (although the weather wasn't brilliant). The second day I went back to film some more beach footage whilst the weather was better (and the beaches were busier!).

The lifeguards do a fantastic job - you can see their enthusiasm for the job when you speak to them, and I saw them going out of their way to help people all time time. It was amazing to spend a few full days with them and learn more about what they do, and so great to hear stories about how many people they have helped - sometimes against all odds.

The film will be passed over to the RNLI North Devon once it's finished, so keep an eye out - and I will make the film available if allowed as soon as it's ready!

www.barry-wilkinson.com