An extensive sea, air, and shoreline search was launched on Saturday afternoon off the coast of Eastbourne after unattended clothing raised fears that someone may have entered the water.
At 12:29pm, Solent Coastguard received a report about clothing found abandoned west of Eastbourne, triggering immediate concern for a possible missing person at sea.
Lifeboat and Helicopter Deployed
The Eastbourne RNLI All-Weather Lifeboat was launched and dispatched to the scene with urgency, coordinating with local Coastguard rescue teams and Sussex Police. As no person was initially located, the search area was expanded and the Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 363 joined from above.
The search lasted for nearly four hours, covering both shoreline and offshore areas.
Casualty Found Safe
Thankfully, the search ended in relief when the individual was found onshore by search teams. The casualty received a medical assessment at the scene and did not suffer any serious injuries.
All involved units, including the RNLI lifeboat, Coastguard teams, Rescue 363 helicopter, and police officers, were stood down and returned to base.
RNLI Statement
An RNLI spokesperson said:
“We’re relieved this incident had a positive outcome thanks to the coordinated effort of our volunteer crew, Coastguard teams, and emergency service partners.
We always urge the public to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard in any coastal emergency.”
Coastal Safety Reminder
The RNLI and Coastguard stress that reporting unattended clothing or belongings near the shoreline is crucial. Quick action and early reporting can save lives.
