South Devon RNLI lifeguards have celebrated another busy summer season, recognising the individuals and teams who went above and beyond to keep beachgoers safe in 2026.

The annual awards, hosted at Stokeley Farm Shop, saw lifeguards vote for their colleagues across three individual categories, while supervisors selected the Team of the Year.

Anna Holland was named Rookie of the Year, recognising the impact she made during her first season, while Will Simmons received Waterman of the Year for outstanding water skills and rescue capabilities.

Tom Stockwell was awarded Lifeguard of the Year for consistently demonstrating high standards and making an outstanding overall contribution throughout the season.

Sedgewell Cove and Bigbury North shared the Team of the Year award, recognising their professionalism, teamwork and decision-making in managing incidents and achieving the best possible outcomes.

RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor Luke Lane-Prokopiou said the 2026 season had been exceptionally busy, with prolonged warm weather attracting large numbers of visitors to South Devon's beaches, alongside challenging weather and storm conditions.

He said: ”We are incredibly proud of the professionalism, dedication and teamwork shown by every Lifeguard throughout the 2026 season. They have worked tirelessly to keep people safe, delivered countless preventative interventions, and responded superbly to the challenges the season presented.”

“With the 2026 RNLI Lifeguard season now complete, our teams have stood down across South Devon's beaches, but while patrols may have ended for the year, preparations for 2027 are already underway.”

South Devon RNLI end of season 2026
South Devon RNLI end of season 2026 (Luke Lane-Prokopiou)

The RNLI is reminding people that the end of the lifeguard season does not mean the sea is any less dangerous, with autumn and winter bringing bigger waves, stronger winds and an increased risk of rip currents.

Beachgoers are advised to check weather and tide conditions, avoid swimming alone and carry a mobile phone. Anyone who gets into difficulty in the water should try to float on their back to control their breathing before calling for help.

Anyone who sees someone in trouble in or around the water should dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.