Heart-Stopping Paddleboard Rescue at Beachy Head
Eastbourne RNLI sprang into action on Sunday afternoon after two paddleboarders got into serious trouble off Falling Sands, Beachy Head. The drama kicked off at 5:21 p.m. following a flood of urgent 999 calls reporting the distress.
Rapid Lifeboat Launch Amid Emergency Surge
With pressure mounting from multiple emergencies, Solent Coastguard ordered Eastbourne RNLI’s D-Class Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) to launch immediately. The all-weather lifeboat Esme Anderson was also sent out to back up the rescue effort.
Just six minutes after setting off, the ILB reached the scene, spotting frantic beachgoers waving for help. The coastguards quickly discovered the two in trouble – including a young child – had been pulled from the water by a courageous public rescuer, who suffered cuts and bruises and needed medical help along with the paddlers.
Helicopter Winch Rescue and Medical Evacuations
Two ILB crew members went ashore for casualty care as the coastguard helicopter Rescue 163 arrived, lowering a winchman to assist. Coastguard Rescue Officers from Eastbourne and Birling Gap also joined the scene.
After initial treatment, the child and their parent were airlifted to Eastbourne District General Hospital for further care. The child’s buoyancy aid likely saved their life in the perilous conditions.
Rescue Ends, Lifesavers Return to Base
With the paddlers safely in hospital, all rescue units stood down and headed back to their stations, bringing a close to a tense but successful operation.
