This afternoon Monday 12th August 2024, HM Coastguard received reports of a small boat in distress off Slash Point in Seaford. In response, the Newhaven lifeboat, coastguard teams from Newhaven and Birling Gap, Coastguard helicopter 163 from Lydd, Sussex Police, and South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECamb) were all mobilised to the scene.

Upon arrival, it was found that a small boat with five people on board had sunk. Fortunately, all individuals were wearing lifejackets and were assisted to shore by a passing jet skier before the emergency teams arrived. Once ashore, they were met by the Coastguard and awaiting paramedics for further care.

A spokesperson for HM Coastguard told Sussex News this evening, “HM Coastguard received multiple 999 calls just after 14:40 this afternoon (12 August) after a small vessel capsized and sunk off Seaford with five people on board.

A coastguard helicopter, coastguard rescue teams from Newhaven and Birling Gap, Newhaven RNLI lifeboat, South East Ambulance Service, and Sussex Police were all sent.

The five people, who were wearing lifejackets, were taken to shore by a jet ski that was in the area before team’s arrival. They were then all passed into the care of the ambulance service.”

The quick action of the passing jet skier, combined with the prompt response of the emergency services, ensured that the situation was resolved safely. This incident underscores the critical importance of lifejackets and highlights the value of community assistance in emergency situations.