Missing at Sea Drama Off Eastbourne Ends Safely After Coastguard Search
Eastbourne plunged into a major sea rescue operation on Saturday after abandoned clothing sparked fears someone had gone missing at sea. The alarm was raised at 12:29pm when Solent Coastguard spotted unattended gear west of Eastbourne’s shoreline.
Lifeboats and Helicopters Scramble
The Eastbourne RNLI All-Weather Lifeboat raced to the scene, joining forces with nearby Coastguard rescue teams and Sussex Police. With no sign of the missing person initially, the search widened, and the Coastguard’s Helicopter Rescue 363 took to the skies to scan the waters and coast.
The intense search lasted nearly four hours, combing both shoreline and offshore zones in a desperate hunt.
Good News: Missing Person Found Safe
Relief flooded in when the missing individual was located safe and sound onshore. The casualty was given a medical check at the scene and thankfully escaped serious injury.
With the rescue complete, all RNLI lifeboats, Coastguard teams, the helicopter, and police were stood down and returned to base.
RNLI Praises Team Effort
“We’re relieved this incident had a positive outcome thanks to the coordinated effort of our volunteer crew, Coastguard teams, and emergency service partners,” said an RNLI spokesperson. “We always urge the public to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard in any coastal emergency.”
Vital Safety Warning for Beachgoers
The RNLI and Coastguard warned the public to never ignore unattended clothing or belongings near the coast. Quick reports could be the difference between life and death.
Remember: if you see anything suspicious, act fast and dial 999 for the Coastguard.
