TWO Durham lifeguards who help others to learn how to save lives have been honoured for their work.

Jonny Gwynne and David Walker, who work at the city's baths, have each been members of the Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS) for more than 17 years and received the society's loyalty award at a ceremony in London.

Jonny, 22, and David, 24, who both started swimming at an early age, are getting recognition for their service to the society.

Durham City Council encouraged the pair to take the society's assessors course as they have been active members of the lifesaving club held at the pool.

The pair deliver RLSS courses for the council including the Bronze Medallion, Save a Baby's Life, Life Support and other lifesaving training.

"The first I knew about the award was when a letter came thought the door from the RLSS," said Jonny.

"It was out of the blue and so I tried to find out who would have put me forward for this. I was told that this sort of information is kept confidential so I am none the wiser but feel very proud, as does David.

"It is very unusual for two people from the same pool to be honoured in this way."

A council spokesman said: "The council is very pleased for them. It is a reward for the hard work they have done. It is a great accolade. Not only are they good lifesavers but they are helping others learn vital skills."