Walker Trapped by Incoming Tide Rescued Near Belle Tout Lighthouse
A walker found themselves trapped by the rising tide yesterday afternoon below the iconic Belle Tout lighthouse, near Birling Gap. A passing Dutch motor yacht spotted the stranded walker and raised the alarm via VHF radio, setting the rescue in motion.
Rapid Rescue by Coastguard and Lifeboat Teams
The Birling Gap Coastguard acted swiftly after receiving the distress call. The Dutch yacht stayed nearby, assisting throughout the operation. The eastbourne/" title="Eastbourne" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Eastbourne inshore lifeboat was quickly launched and successfully rescued the walker, bringing them safely back to Birling Gap where their relieved family awaited.
Warning Issued Over Tides and Cliff Walks
The Birling Gap Coastguard stressed the importance of checking tide times and weather before tackling walks at the base of the cliffs. They warned, “The terrain can be deceptively challenging and the distance longer than it looks.”
Team Effort from Multiple Agencies
The rescue was a combined effort involving RNLI Eastbourne, Eastbourne Coastguard, Newhaven Coastguard, and Coastguard helicopter 163. The Coastguard sent a warm “Dankjewel en goeie reis” – Dutch for “thank you and have a good journey” – to the heroic crew of the Dutch yacht who played a vital role in the lifesaving operation.
