GROWING up in Cockenzie, my misspent youth was indulged playing ‘on the rocks’, diving into the harbour and swimming in ‘the pool’.

No wetsuits and fancy water shoes, no sunscreen, no restrictions on wanderings. Our only safety advice was not to go on a boat with a Russian sailor!

These days, I watch with envy the adventures of surfers, kayakers and paddleboarders skimming unaided across the water. Looks so enticing but, at my age, wild swimming is the most exciting option I can consider.

Recent reports that East Lothian has the best seaside towns and beaches in the UK is not surprising. Those of us lucky enough to live here are well aware and appreciate its often-secluded charms.

Living near the coast is, however, not without risk. The sad news of Peter Gray, the fisherman who lost his life off our coast last month, has weighed heavily on my mind. You may have seen on TV the dramatic, heart-stopping footage of a young girl being rescued by an RNLI lifeboat team from a dinghy that had drifted out to sea in north-east Wales. The wee lass’s sobs for help were heart-wrenching. The sea is dangerous. We should not take it for granted.

The RNLI, founded in 1824, is a charity, 95 per cent funded by donations from the public. It is manned by volunteers who, as soon as they are alerted, drop everything and put their lives on the line to rush to the aid of anyone in danger at sea. If you have ever heard the sirens and cars screeching from all directions to the lifeboat stations, you will be aware of their dedication and sacrifice. In 2020, they saved one life every day. It could have been you.

So, stay safe. Follow advice at rnli.org/safety/beach-safety. If you see someone in trouble, call the coastguard on 999 or 112. And let’s not take the RNLI for granted. Visit the RNLI shops, become a member, go online to lend your support. Heaven forbid you ever need to call.