Drama unfolded at Pagham Harbour on Saturday evening when two Russian nationals were cut off by the incoming tide. Sussex Police sprang into action after receiving the emergency call, keeping in touch with the pair via mobile phone using an interpreter.
Swift Lifeboat Launch Saves the Day
The Selsey RNLI crew launched their inshore lifeboat at 8.46pm and reached the scene within minutes. The stranded man and woman were swiftly given lifejackets and brought aboard. Attempts to land them on Pagham beach were scrapped due to dangerous swell.
Safe Ashore Thanks to Coastguard and Ambulance Teams
The lifeboat headed to Selsey, where the Coastguard Rescue Team and ambulance awaited. Both were brought safely ashore and checked by paramedics. They were then taken to the hospital suffering from mild hypothermia.
Conditions during the rescue were calm with good visibility, but the tide’s sudden turn left little room for error.
