The RNLI will hold up the case as an example of the dangers involved

Russell Mullins, in his second year as an RNLI lifeguard, was left unconscious after "tombstoning" into the sea from the sea wall in Newquay.

The 27-year-old from Newquay, who is also a competitive surfer, is in a stable condition in hospital.

Lifeguard manager Steven Instance said: "We need to take it on the chin, learn from it and pass this experience on."

'A shame'

Mr Instance said the lifeguard had been on a day off "looking for a bit of fun and adventure" but had misjudged the timing of the jump.

He broke his leg in two places and fractured a cheekbone, and was airlifted to Royal Cornwall Hospital on Sunday.

This experience will go throughout the lifeguard community RNLI

The RNLI has spoken out against the popular activity, which involves jumping off high objects into the sea, after one man died.

Mr Instance said: "We are disappointed definitely. Up to a degree it is embarrassing for us.

"It is a shame that while we are trying to drum this safety message into people, it is our lifeguards out doing it.

"Thankfully he wasn't doing it in uniform. This experience will go throughout the lifeguard community."

Advocate

They now hope this case will be used as an example for other people wanting to try "tombstoning".

Mr Instance said: "It certainly goes to show that even the most experienced people can get into trouble.

"When this goes wrong, it goes very wrong.

"Hopefully Russ will be one of our better advocates of passing this message, now that he can show people just how experienced he is and what consequences happen when you get it wrong."

He said colleagues were relieved to hear that he was in a stable condition.

The RNLI advises people to only undertake the activity under experienced instruction.