An independent lifeboat group on the Moray coast has warned of unprecedented demand after being called out six times in a week.
Findhorn-based Miro, which responds to calls between Burghead and Nairn, was called out 15 times in the whole of last year.
The charity reached nearly half that total during last week alone as locals rushed to the coast in the heat – with three calls in a single day at one point.
Yesterday the group warned sun-seekers to take care near the water to avoid potential tragedy.
The group’s most recent call-out came at about 11pm on Monday when it was sent to rescue two people trapped by the tide on the east bar in Nairn.
Just three days earlier, the crew attended a similar incident near the town when three “extremely cold” people had become trapped by rising water.
Other call-outs have included people getting into difficulty on body boards and paddle boards as well as a yacht which broke down.
Operations manager Peter Mackenzie has issued a reminder to call the Coastguard on 999 if people see someone in difficult in the water.
He added: “Summer is always a busy time for Miro. However, this year is the first time we have been called out three times in one day. Luckily everyone was rescued.
“Whilst we want everyone to enjoy our coastal waters and beaches, I would urge everyone to be safe and be aware of the currents and tides as their strength and speed can often take people by surprise.”