Emergency services launched a major rescue operation on Saturday evening after two people were reported in the water at Chichester Marina.

At 7:40pm on 26 April, the Coastguard requested assistance following reports of the incident. Both lifeboats from the local station were launched and made good speed to the location, arriving alongside Coastguard rescue helicopter 175.

Upon arrival, one casualty had managed to climb back onto their dinghy, while the other remained in the water, holding on. Lifeboat crews quickly pulled the casualty from the water and recovered the second from the dinghy, wrapping both individuals in blankets.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat transported the casualties to the Chichester Marina pontoon, where they were met by members of the Selsey Coastguard Rescue Team and escorted to the Marina office to warm up while awaiting medical assistance.

By this time, Rescue 175 had landed nearby, and its onboard paramedic, along with a fast response ambulance paramedic, provided immediate care.

The casualties were later transported by ambulance to hospital for further treatment. Thanks to the excellent teamwork between the lifeboat crews, Coastguard, helicopter crew, and paramedics, the situation was resolved swiftly and safely.