RNLI Lifeboat Rushes to Rescue Twice During Packed Airshow Day
RNLI volunteers sprang into action twice on Sunday 17 August as thousands flocked to the final day of the International Airshow. The seaside town saw drama on the water amid strong winds and large crowds.
Child and Adult Stranded on Paddleboard
At 3:25pm, the Solent Coastguard called the RNLI’s All-Weather Lifeboat after reports of a child struggling in Seaford Bay’s choppy waters. As the crew raced through worsening conditions, it emerged two people—a child and an adult—were clinging to a paddleboard being blown out to sea.
With the lifeboat still 25 minutes away, a Mayday appeal went out to nearby vessels. Luckily, both were hauled safely ashore before RNLI arrived. After standing down, the crew even managed to catch the famous Red Arrows display.
Multiple People Rescued Near Eastbourne
Just over an hour later at 4:31pm, the lifeboat was scrambled again—this time to reports of several people in trouble near Wish Tower on Eastbourne seafront.
The lifeboat sped off, but beach lifeguards had already rescued everyone by the time it arrived. Coastguard Rescue Officers were on hand providing care. All accounted for, the lifeboat returned to station after what the RNLI called a “long day on the water.”
RNLI Warns: Stay Alert on the Coast
The RNLI urged holidaymakers and locals to stay alert at the seaside. In any coastal emergency, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard immediately.
