One of Wales' most popular beaches has lost its lifeguard cover after RNLI lifeguards tested positive for Covid, forcing the rest of the team to self-isolate.
The RNLI said it had to withdraw cover at the eight-mile long Pembrey Beach earlier than planned because it didn't have lifeguards available.
The summer cover - due to run until September 5 - has now ceased and the RNLI has warned people to be extra careful when they visit the Carmarthenshire beach.
Read more: How locals fought guerrilla style to stop stunning 8-mile-long beach from becoming a gunnery range
A RNLI spokesperson said: "Unfortunately, the number of lifeguards affected means the lifeguard team is reduced in numbers and the RNLI charity has had to make the difficult decision to withdraw the lifeguard service on Pembrey beach early."
Pembrey Beach, also known as Cefn Sidan, has been described as one of Europe's best beaches and with its lifeguards and flat sands it's popular with families and disabled visitors. It was the first beach in Wales to achieve the coveted blue flag award and is also well known for the numerous ship wrecks buried in the sand at the northern end of the beach.
The RNLI said anyone planning on a late summer visit to the beach should stay within their limits, read safety signs, let someone know where they are going and when they are planning to be back. If you do find yourself in difficulty in the water, float to increase your chances of survival. If you see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
Burry Port lifeboat station remains fully operational to be able to respond to calls from the Coastguard, while the lifeguard services at Port Eynon and Pendine beaches remain unaffected.
You can find your nearest lifeguarded beach here and check water safety advice at rnli.org/safety.
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