RNLI Lifeboat Launches Dramatic Search for Missing Kitesurfer Off Hayling Island
Bembridge RNLI’s All-Weather Lifeboat, RNLB Alfred Albert Williams, was rushed out at 9.40pm to hunt for a missing kitesurfer off Hayling Island. The vessel, a Tamar-class lifeboat, responded to an urgent call from UK (Solent) Coastguard.
Massive Rescue Effort Kicks Off in Choppy Seas
The rescue mission saw a flotilla of helpers joining the hunt, including Hayling Coastguard Rescue Team, Selsey Coastguard Rescue Team, and two Hayling Island RNLI lifeboats (B-Class and D-Class). Two Coastguard helicopters, Rescue 163 and Rescue 175, also scoured the skies.
Despite choppy Force 5 westerly winds, the lifeboat quickly reached the search zone. The teams tackled 31 search legs set by the Solent Coastguard, scouring the waters for any sign of the missing surfer.
Search Called Off After Hours at Sea
No trace of the kitesurfer was found. The search was scaled back when Rescue 175 was diverted to assist Yarmouth RNLI with a separate emergency off St Catherine’s Point. RNLB Alfred Albert Williams was stood down and safely returned to the Offshore Boathouse by 12.45am.
