Three Students Rescued as Rising Tide Strands Them at Cuckmere Haven
Newhaven RNLI’s volunteer lifeboat crew launched a dramatic rescue on Thursday, 16 January, after three students got trapped by the fast-rising tide near Flagstaff Point, Cuckmere Haven.
Surfers Spot Students in Peril, Call Lifeboat Crew
At 1:05 pm, surfers noticed the stranded trio and moved them to a safer spot before alerting Newhaven RNLI. The crew quickly launched their inshore lifeboat Bill Hall, navigating treacherous shallow waters to reach the students. The crew provided lifejackets and safely brought them back to shore.
“The water was coming in fast, and there was no way back. We couldn’t swim, our phones were dead, and we felt like we were going to die. Seeing the lifeboat coming towards us was such a relief,”
said rescued student Prashik Sonawane. “The crew were so friendly and took great care of us.”
First Rescue of 2025 and Milestones for Crew
This rescue was not just life-saving but historic for Newhaven RNLI. It marked the station’s first call-out of 2025 and a big day for the crew:
- Steve Hopson made his lifeboat crew debut.
- Fi McColgan took her first role as Launch Authority.
Steve Hopson reflected, “When the pager went off, the adrenaline kicked in. It was a relief to see the students were okay, though cold and shaken. We reassured them and made sure they were comfortable.”
RNLI Urges Caution Near Tide
After the rescue, the students received medical attention from paramedics. RNLI Water Safety Officer Jane Masey warned beachgoers:
“Always check tide times and carry a means of calling for help.”
If you find yourself in danger on the coast, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard immediately.
