The coxswain of an independent lifeboat service has encouraged families to follow advice to ensure their summer holidays remain fun, relaxing and safe.

As the summer season gets into full swing, Hemsby Independent Lifeboat coxswain Daniel Hurd has reminded people to stay vigilant when they enjoy many of Norfolk's beautiful waterways.

The lifeboat - which since 1999 has also run an inshore Broads rescue service - was recently called to assist with a cruiser stuck on the River Yare after it suffered a "major failure".

Mr Hurd said while the Broads are "beautiful" they still pose more of a risk than some people believe.

Hemsby Lifeboat: crew member Ant, coxswain Dan Hurd, helmsman Chris Batten and land crew Andrew.Hemsby Lifeboat: crew member Ant, coxswain Dan Hurd, helmsman Chris Batten and land crew Andrew. (Image: James Weeds) "The currents can be incredibly strong and won't leave people much time to react," he said.

"And the high weeds under the surface can be a cause for concern.

A boat was in need of a rescue on the River Yare.A boat was in need of a rescue on the River Yare. (Image: Hemsby Lifeboat) "But as long as people make sure they are wearing life jackets - especially their kids and pets - things should be fine. 

"We want people to enjoy our beautiful waterways - both inland and along the coast. And we want to make sure everyone gets home safe at the end of the day."

Hemsby Lifeboat taking their rigid inflatable boat (RIB) out for a training exercise.Hemsby Lifeboat taking their rigid inflatable boat (RIB) out for a training exercise. (Image: Oliv3r Drone Photography) Mr Hurd said his crew will be on call 24 hours a day - as always - throughout the summer to be there when people need help.

The season has provided some respite to the ongoing erosion crisis at Hemsby Beach and sand has built up along the shore, with more marram grass growing on the cliffs.

Hemsby Lifeboat taking their rigid inflatable boat (RIB) out for a training exercise.Hemsby Lifeboat taking their rigid inflatable boat (RIB) out for a training exercise. (Image: Oliv3r Drone Photography) But Mr Hurd said the crew and volunteers will still be busy with call-outs, training exercises and their upcoming Lifeboat Day and Herring Festival.

The fun begins at 4pm on Saturday, August 10. The crew will be hosting their annual foam party with live music from the Floating Greyhounds, a licensed bar and sun and fun on the beach.

Hemsby Lifeboat taking their rigid inflatable boat (RIB) out for a training exercise.Hemsby Lifeboat taking their rigid inflatable boat (RIB) out for a training exercise. (Image: Oliv3r Drone Photography) The following day, the Lifeboat Day begins at 9am. The bar will be back open, with a barbecue, bouncy castle and fun for the family. It is hoped Great Yarmouth and Gorleston RNLI will also make an appearance, showing off their manoeuvres at sea.

Two weeks later, the Herring Festival is also expected to draw a strong crowd from 10am.

The clean up after Hemsby Lifeboat took their RIB out for a training exercise.The clean up after Hemsby Lifeboat took their RIB out for a training exercise. (Image: James Weeds) Mr Hurd added: "Despite the ongoing worry with erosion, the lifeboat is the best it's ever been.

"We're going from strength to strength, and always progressing.

"And we want to give thanks to everyone who continues to support us."

Hemsby Lifeboat is independent and not part of the RNLI.Hemsby Lifeboat is independent and not part of the RNLI. (Image: James Weeds)