A GROUP of young lifesavers has just completed a successful summer season.

Teignmouth Beach Surf Life Saving Club started a 'nippers' section, after feedback from parents who wanted their children to be safe in the water.

They took part in board paddling, swimming, surfing and learning basic first aid.

Experienced lifeguard Kim Webber-Marks, who set up the mini group, with help from Beckie Jones, Holly Wilce and Lily and Rudi Geraghty-Morris, said: 'I hope the children will gain awareness and knowledge of the sea, and go on to feel competent in the water.'

The nine five-to-ten year-olds made good progress and it is hoped they will take part in competitions next year.

Ben Coen, five, was voted Nipper of the Year, and Blossom Geraghty-Morris, nine, Most Improved Nipper, at the recent prize giving.

Kim, 18, has been a member of the club since she was 12, and is a RNLI lifeguard at Teignmouth, Dawlish Warren and Exmouth in the summer.

She is going to study sports and exercise science at Aberystwyth University.

Any youngsters interested in signing up for next year can contact Kim on [email protected]">[email protected].