SWIMMERS are being warned to stay out of the sea at this time of year.

Warren Morgan, leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, said the low water temperatures makes the sea deadly even to the strongest of swimmers.

It comes after a body was pulled from the water off Hove beach on Saturday.

The man, who has not been identified, was thought to have been drinking.

Cllr Morgan said: “Our advice to residents and visitors is simple: please stay out of the sea at this time of year.

“The very low water temperature means even strong swimmers can be at risk of hypothermia within seconds, even in good weather conditions.

“We would also underline that it is never safe to go into the sea after drinking alcohol. Even a small amount of alcohol speeds up the onset of hypothermia in cold water, and reduces your capabilities.”

He also praised the efforts of emergency services, the council’s seafront team and members of the Brighton Surf Club who searched for the man on Saturday.

He said: “They did an outstanding job coordinating the rescue attempt with excellent support from the RNLI boat, search and rescue helicopter and coastguard.”