Brave Lifeboat Crew Rescue Injured Fisherman 19 Miles Offshore
Newhaven Lifeboat’s volunteer crew sprang into action at 1:46 am after a 38-metre fishing vessel sent out a distress call. One crew member suffered a severe injury 19 nautical miles south of Newhaven and desperately needed medical help.
Challenging Conditions Don’t Stop Lifeboat Heroes
Facing a slight sea state and a northerly breeze of 10 knots, the seven-strong crew launched their powerful Severn class lifeboat, racing to the stricken vessel. The injured man had likely suffered a serious lower arm compound fracture from a crushing accident on board.
Second Coxswain Lee Blacknell revealed what made the rescue tricky: “Due to fog in Lydd, the launch of the rescue helicopter was not possible. Luckily, visibility for us was good.” This allowed the crew to reach the vessel quickly and safely.
Swift Rescue and Expert Care at Sea
The lifeboat executed a sharp manoeuvre alongside the fishing boat’s starboard side, safely transferring the injured fisherman onto their foredeck. “He received initial casualty care and, despite his injury, was in good spirits,” said Blacknell.
With the casualty secure, the crew raced back to Newhaven, where paramedics were ready to provide urgent hospital treatment.
Another daring rescue for the fearless Newhaven Lifeboat volunteers – heroes at sea when lives are on the line.
