Armed police lifeguards to patrol popular French beaches

Police lifeguards carrying guns will patrol beaches in France amid fears terrorists are planning to attack tourists this summer.

The CRS police officers have been deployed to monitor some of the country's busiest beaches throughout July and August.

SEE ALSO: Istanbul airport attack - what we know so far

SEE ALSO: Safety more important than price for UK holidaymakers

Speaking to Europe1 radio, Nicolas Comte from the SGP-FO police union said it is the first time the lifeguards will be armed. "Normally throughout July and August they are in their swim suits and unarmed," he said.

He added that only officers in charge of first aid centres will be able to carry weapons and these will be kept in special cases adapted for the swimwear worn by the officers.

Comte says that the measure is necessary as these days "police are the target of terrorists".

He said it means there is security for everyone on the beach and that holidaymakers should not be alarmed as they will "not see police in heavy armour, they will see lifeguards".

But Frédéric Lagache of another police union, Alliance, said the lifeguards will look foolish.

According to the Daily Telegraph, he said: "We will be swimming in ridicule. It is necessary to keep police and tourists secure on beaches, but not in this manner. I don't like the idea of a CRS officer intervening with a gun and a bullet-proof vest while in swimming trunks."