THE Royal National Lifeboat Institution has launched an online recruitment campaign to boost its number of lifeguards in Wirral.

New recruits will be kitted, paid and trained to patrol the borough's five beaches.

Peter Rooney, RNLI lifeguard manager, said: "I can't think of a better way to cure the winter blues than applying to become an RNLI beach lifeguard and get paid to save lives this summer.

"We're looking for strong swimmers who can swim 400m with a good level of fitness aged over 16 years old.

"If you have the raw ability and the will to learn we can help get you fit and qualified."

Lifeguards come from all walks of life including teachers, students, stay-at-home parents, business owners and gap year travellers, all looking to do something special with their summer.

Peter Rooney added: "The experience you'll gain this summer as an RNLI beach lifeguard will stay with you for life.

"You’ll work with an inspiring team and make lifelong friends while getting the chance to improve your physical fitness and learn new skills.

"There's nothing better than making the beach your office, getting paid to train and knowing you have the first aid and rescue skills to save someone's life at a moment's notice.

"It's the best job you'll ever have."

For more details visit jobs.rnli.org/lifeguards.html