Sheppey’s new RNLI lifeguards have provided their first major first aid.

Rebecca Chatwin, 25, and 22-year-old Tobias Ullyett were on duty at Sheerness Beach when they were approached by a pensioner who was asking for help.

The man, thought to be in his late 70s, said he was suffering from chest pains and felt like he was going to faint.

It happened just before 2pm on Sunday, June 23.

He was drifting in and out of consciousness but was able to let them know he has angina and diabetes and that although he had taken his medication, it was having no effect.

The man was helped to the lifeguard hut and Mr Ullyett put an oxygen mask on him while Ms Chatwin contacted the coastguard and called an ambulance.

He was also given further medication for his angina by the lifeguards. When paramedics arrived, they checked his blood glucose level, took an ECG and took him to Medway Maritime Hospital, where his condition was assessed further.

RNLI lifeguard supervisor Tomas Thorndycraft said: “When our lifeguards patrol Sheppey’s beaches, they are not only here to look after the safety of those in the water, but also the wellbeing of people in the immediate beach area.

“Our casualty care training ensures they are well equipped to assess and care for conditions ranging from minor cuts to emergencies such as heart attacks, giving life-saving first aid until paramedics arrive.

“This case shows how important it is to come and talk to the lifeguards if you’re feeling unwell on the beach.

“Thanks to Rebecca and Tobias’s quick actions, the casualty was passed into the care of the ambulance service in a stable condition with as much background information as possible.

“We wish the gentleman well with his continuing recovery.”

• The RNLI is still looking for local people to apply. For more information, phone Nick Ayers on 07887 625269, email nicholas_ayers@rnli.org.uk, or see www.rnli.org/jobs