MANCHESTER, N.H. —

Hampton Beach lifeguards received special recognition Wednesday from Gov. Kelly Ayotte.

Ayotte issued an official commendation to the full team of lifeguards, including junior guards, during an executive council meeting on the Seacoast.

This year, the lifeguards have carried out more than 200 ocean rescues and made more than 7,000 contacts with beachgoers, reminding them not to bring alcohol to the beach.

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"The community here to keep people safe is outstanding, it's the best in the country and it's thanks to everyone, it's not one person, it's a team," said Patrick Murphy, chief of New Hampshire Beach Patrol.

Officials said 144 of the rescues occurred over a span of six days this su

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