A large-scale emergency response has been launched today (Wednesday, 18 June) after three separate incidents unfolded along the Sussex coastline, prompting coordinated operations by the RNLI, HM Coastguard, and rescue helicopter crews.

Worthing – Missing Person Found Safe

At 5:16pm, Shoreham RNLI’s All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) was launched following reports of a missing person in the Worthing area.

A HM Coastguard spokesperson confirmed:

“At around 5pm, HM Coastguard received reports of a missing person in Worthing, West Sussex. Rescue Teams from Shoreham and Littlehampton, along with Shoreham’s inshore and all-weather lifeboats, were deployed. Sussex Police were also informed.
The search was stood down after the individual was located safe and well.”

Brighton Marina – Red Flare Prompts Water Search

Shortly after the Worthing incident, both Shoreham ALB and the Brighton RNLI lifeboat were diverted to Brighton Marina following reports of a person in the water.

Emergency teams, including Coastguard Rescue Units and Rescue Helicopter 175 from Solent, responded after a red flare was sighted from a nearby vessel. The flare triggered an urgent search, although it has not yet been confirmed whether anyone was found.
Further updates have been requested from HM Coastguard and the RNLI.

Beachy Head – Vehicle Drives Off Cliff in Ongoing Rescue Operation

A third and critical rescue operation is currently underway near Beachy Head, where a vehicle reportedly plunged from the cliff edge into the sea below.

Eastbourne RNLI’s Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) was launched and is working in conjunction with local Coastguard teams and the Coastguard helicopter from Lydd.
Initial reports suggest the driver survived the fall but remains trapped inside the vehicle, which is partially submerged.

Emergency responders are continuing efforts to free the individual, with fire crews and cutting equipment deployed as part of a complex extraction effort.

If you see someone in trouble at the coast, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.