Christmas Call-Out: RNLI Crew Rescues Stranded Angler
While most were tucking into Christmas dinner, Eastbourne’s volunteer RNLI crew sprang into action. Their mission? Rescue a fishing boat stuck miles offshore in busy shipping lanes.
Pagers Sound at Noon: Lifeboat Launches Without Delay
At 12:40pm on Christmas Day, the Solent Coastguard pagers blasted. The order came to launch the All-Weather Lifeboat Esme Anderson. The target: a vessel suffering mechanical failure 16 miles south of Sovereign Harbour. With the sea crowded and danger high, speed was crucial.
Leaving Festivities Behind For Rescue
Despite being in the middle of their own holiday celebrations, the volunteers raced to the station. By 1pm, they were through the locks and heading to the distressed craft. On arrival, the crew made sure the lone angler was safe. They then towed the vessel clear of the shipping lanes, averting what could have been a serious disaster.
Safe Harbour and Selfless Service
The team returned the angling boat safely to Sovereign Harbour shortly after 4pm. They secured it for repairs and readied their lifeboat for any more emergencies. After standing down, the crew finally rejoined their families—some just in time to enjoy Christmas dinner.
Eastbourne RNLI’s Christmas Day rescue is a stark reminder of the bravery and dedication of these volunteers who put lives before festive plans.
