Mum and Daughter Team Up to Guard Cornwall’s Beaches

Ahead of Mother’s Day, a Cornish mum and daughter are sharing more than family time after both stepping into the role of RNLI lifeguards on the south Cornwall coast.

RNLI lifeguard Martha Dixon and her daughter Rosa Davies both joined the RNLI lifeguard team last season. As Mother’s Day approaches on 15th March, the pair have been reflecting on what it means to train together and help keep people safe on Cornwall’s beaches.

Martha described working alongside her daughter as something special.

‘a total privilege to be able to work and train alongside Rosa.’

‘I am so proud of Rosa for working as a RNLI lifeguard.’

📷Rosa working in a seasonal role - Credit: RNLI

Patrolling South Cornwall’s Beaches

Last season Martha worked on Praa Sands and Kennack Sands, while Rosa was stationed at Gyllyngvase beach in Falmouth, often called Gylly, and at Porthleven.

This year the pair will both be returning to the RNLI team. Martha will continue as a casual lifeguard, while Rosa will return from university to take up a seasonal role once again.

Although they have not yet been on the same patrol, they regularly train and compete together as part of the south Cornwall lifeguard team. One highlight is the annual lifeguard water polo competition, which brings a bit of family rivalry into the mix.

A Shared Passion for the Sea

The pair’s connection to lifesaving goes back more than a decade. Martha and Rosa have both been part of the Surf Life Saving community for over ten years, something that helped lead them towards lifeguarding with the RNLI.

Martha explained why the role suits them so well.

‘Lifeguarding allows us to put into practice the sport we love. It’s extremely rewarding to implement the skills we use in training to help keep others safe.’

Martha also competes for Gyllyngvase Surf Life Saving Club in both pool and beach competitions.

She said: ‘it’s still really competitive in the older age groups, but sometimes I’m lucky enough to win medals!’

📷Martha winning gold at the Cornish Surf Life Saving competition - Credit: RNLI/Martha Dixon

Communication Is Key

Rosa believes one of the reasons they work well as a team is their ability to speak with beach visitors and share safety advice.

‘I think we are both good at chatting to the public, it’s a really important part of our job to keep people safe and informed.’

Adam Harris, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor, said the pair are a valued part of the team.

‘Martha and Rosa are invaluable members of our team. It’s great to see them training and learning together and ultimately sharing skills that are making our beaches safer.’

Returning To Beaches From April

RNLI lifeguards are due to return to beaches in the south west from 3rd April.

Martha hopes their story might encourage others to consider the role too.

‘Give it a try, it’s such a rewarding job.’

Season dates vary between beaches, so visitors are advised to check when lifeguards are on duty and to always swim between the red and yellow flags.

📷Martha and Rosa training together - Credit: RNLI