ROYAL Marines from Plymouth are helping feed the top lifeguards in the country.

Chefs from Plymouth-based 30 Commando are providing outdoors catering for hungry lifeguards at Exmouth.

The willing chefs volunteered to support Exmouth Beach Rescue Club which is hosting the National Beach Life Guarding Competition (NLC) for the first time, until Monday (Aug 25).

The Royal Navy’s amphibious troops have set up a full field galley, similar to that created on operations such as Afghanistan.

Breakfast, lunch and evening meals are being provided for up to 300 people, including the host rescue club, Surf Life Saving Great Britain and members of the general public.

Colour Sergeant Jim Hawkins, 34, a volunteer with Exmouth Beach Rescue Club (EBRC), said: “It’s really good to help out the local community and local youth charities such as the EBRC. I hope we can help in future events.

"This, once again, brings the Royal Marines into close proximity with the public and maintains the already strong bond with members of the local community.’’

He said the event would also gain the Marines valuable training in large field-catering, feeding and working with outside agencies at management level. All profits taken by 30 Commando on sales will be split between the EBRC and Royal Marines charities. The event also helped promote the Marines varied role during their 350th anniversary.