People can get legal advice at the beach this summer thanks to the University of Exeter.

In a new move the University's Law School Community Law Clinic is setting up pro bono sessions at Exmouth and Teignmouth to provide free legal support to beachgoers in Devon.

The proposed "Law on the Beach" programme is the brainchild of Professor Sue Prince from the University of Exeter Law School.

The concept echoes a similar initiative by the University of Newcastle Law School in Australia and has garnered support from acclaimed law firms and the Teignbridge Citizens Advice Bureau.

The initiative aims to aid those affected by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis by offering legal assistance, and simultaneously offers practical experience to the students involved.

Kim McDonald, senior lecturer and director of the Community Law Clinic at the University of Exeter, emphasised on the importance of the access to justice and said: "Amidst the cost-of-living crisis, ensuring everyone has access to essential legal assistance is paramount.

"Too many do not have access to justice or legal aid.

"We hope Law on the Beach will empower individuals facing legal challenges intensified by the current economic climate and provide a lifeline to those navigating complex legal issues without adequate support."

While participating students will benefit from professional supervision during the sessions, the initiative also offers them an opportunity to improve their expertise.

Dr Craig Newbery-Jones, associate professor in Law at the University of Exeter Law School, said: "This initiative not only addresses a critical societal need but also provides our students with invaluable practical experience.

"By working alongside experienced professionals and tackling real-world legal challenges, our students will develop the skills and empathy needed to be effective advocates for justice."

In addition to providing advice, this initiative will also focus on researching the impact of pro bono legal help on communities and identifying their specific unfulfilled legal needs.

The "Law on the Beach" sessions are to be held from 10am to 3.30pm, starting on June 4 at Exmouth's Ocean Club and on June 5 at Teignmouth Yacht Club.

For more details or to book an appointment, interested parties can visit https://law.exeter.ac.uk/community/communitylawclinic/ or email a2jclinic@exeter.ac.uk.