LIFEGUARDS will not be on duty at one of Kent's most popular beaches this summer, meaning lives could be put at risk.

Council officials have slashed the number of lifeguards on duty from 14 to just eight – and none of them will be based at Tankerton or anywhere else in Whitstable.

The decision means the hundreds of families who flock to the area during the peak season will do so at their own risk, with no safety cover.

It has deeply concerned beach users and safety groups who say more accidents could happen as a result.

Jain Castiau , chairman of the Tankerton Bay Beach Hut Owners’ Association, said it was worrying for parents and grandparents.

“We are at a loss to understand why they have withdrawn the lifeguards,” she said. "They have all the equipment that they need and it helped provide a safe environment for children. Many of our members have children and grandchildren and it provided reassurance for them and everyone else using the beach.”

Officials say the decision is so they can use the resources they have in the most efficient way.

Council spokesman Rob Davies said: “The council is providing the lifeguard cover that is required in line with the beach awards we have.

“Tankerton beach has a rural seaside award, which does not require a lifeguard to be in place. We are currently in the process of reviewing our foreshore staff to make sure we make the best use of the resources we have.”

The foreshore budget, which includes lifeguards, has been cut by more than £66,000, but officials say they have restructured the service to make it as cost-effective as possible.

But a spokesman for accident prevention group RoSPA said lifeguards were essential for all busy beaches.

“We understand councils have budget shortfalls but they need to look at other ways of maintaining a presence on the beach. We would say lifeguards are vital,” he said.

Whitstable lifeboat operations manager Mike Judge said it was important that people were aware of the change.

“Our only concern is that the public are fully aware whether there are lifeguards or not so they can make their own informed decision as to whether to use the beach or not.”