HOTELIERS have launched a new safety campaign to avoid a repeat of the double drowning off Burton Bradstock.

Members of the World Heritage Coast Hospitality Association have attended the group's first ever 'safer resort training program' at the Acropolis Hotel in Weymouth.

A group of 10 accommodation providers have also received safer resort initiative certificates for driving up standards for tourists.

Alan Davis, association chief executive, said: "The accommodation provider receiving certificates have improved standards above the norm.

"They are committed to spreading the word to other accommodation providers to look at safety as a major issue."

The hoteliers have won recognition for such measures as checking the electrical safety of rooms above statutory standards, telling guests about such bylaws as jumping off Weymouth town bridge, warning them about jet ski safety and placing beach safety guidelines in bedrooms. But hoteliers have also warned guests about such dangers as the waters off Chesil Beach after Michael Beatwell, 35, drowned trying to rescue schoolboy Jack Shelton off Burton Bradstock last August.

Mr Davis said: "We cannot stop accidents happening, like at Burton Bradstock. But we can play a part in highlighting the problem and bring matters to the attention of holidaymakers."

Haven Holiday Camp at Preston, Oaklands Guest House in Weymouth and Clyff Farm at Dorchester were among the providers to receive certificates in the first ceremony of its kind.

The presentation came after 20 hoteliers from Weymouth, Lyme Regis, Dorchester and the Piddle Valley attended the association's safer resort training program.

The day included sessions on health and safety, fire regulations, hygiene and new disabled access rules being introduced in October and speakers from Southern Tourist Board, South West Tourism and Weymouth College.

Mr Davis said: "The comments from South West Tourism at the end were that everybody present was fully committed to pushing safety as a major initiative for Weymouth and the surrounding area."

Now the association is holding a second training day on May. Anyone interested can call the association helpline on 01305 853400.