Callouts from: 2006 2007 2008 2010

Eastbourne Lifeboats Callouts 2009

ALB Launch Number 43

ILB Launch Number 55

Dover Coastguard requested both Eastbourne Lifeboats to assist the Royal Navy Bomb Disposal Team and the local Coastguard in the disposal of live ordinance on the rocks at Shooters Bottom (Beachy Head).

The Royal Navy team and the Coastguard were taken to Shooters bottom on the All Weather Lifeboat, then transferred to the rocks using the Inshore Lifeboat. Both boats then monitored the coastline whilst the Bomb Disposal team blew up the live shells found by the Coastguard on the last callout.

Inshore Lifeboat transferring the Bomb Disposal Team to the rocks

All Weather Lifeboat monitoring the shore line

Photo taken By David Riley

ALB Launch Number 42

ILB Launch Number 54

At the request of Dover Coastguard both Eastbourne Lifeboats were launched to assist the Coastguard in the recovery of a body from Beachy Head.

When on scene in the shooters bottom - Belle Toute area the Inshore Lifeboat went in onto the rocks and recovered the casualty, whilst the All Weather Lifeboat stood by ready to assist if required. The casualty was then transferred to the Inshore Lifeboat station and handed over to the Coroners Representative.

ALB Launch Number 41

The Eastbourne Relief All Weather Lifeboat (Fisherman's Friend) was launched to assist a six metre sailing boat in heavy seas, its position four miles north east of Sovereign Harbour. The casualty with three persons on board had engine failure, and was unable to sail against the strong south westerly winds.

Once on scene the ALB Crew passed over a tow line and started the precarious tow back in the heavy seas to Sovereign Harbour,

The casualty a sailing vessel registered in Sweden had been sailing from Dover to Brighton is moored in Sovereign Harbour, having engine repairs and waiting for fairer weather.

                       photo taken by Mark Chessell                         photo taken close to harbour entrance

Crewman Tim Guy passes tow line

ILB Launch Number 53

Dover Coastguard requested the Inshore Lifeboat launch to the report of a person having jumped into the sea from Eastbourne Pier.

Once on scene approximately two hundred metres west of Eastbourne Pier,the ILB Crew transferred the casualty who was unconscious to the beach. The Lifeboat Crew attempted to resuscitate him, until the Eastbourne Ambulance technicians arrived.

ILB Launch Number 52

Following the report of a person in the sea possibly in trouble close to the Hilton Hotel. Dover Coastguard paged the Inshore Lifeboat to launch.

Whilst the ILB was being launched, the callout was cancelled. The Police had confirmed the casualty was in fact enjoying an early morning swim fully clothed.

ILB Launch Number 51

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched following a report from a member of the Public to Dover Coastguard, that there was a canoeist was in need of assistance 20 metres off the beach close to Sovereign Harbour. A flashing light had alerted the passer by.

When on scene the ILB found the canoeist was fishing and did not need any assistance,

(A false alarm with good intent).

ILB Launch Number 50

Following a report from a member of the Public, Dover Coastguard requested the Inshore Lifeboat launch.

The casualty was a swimmer reported to be in difficulty two hundred metres off Eastbourne Seafront.

When on scene the ILB found that the swimmer was in fact a professional swimmer and was in no apparent danger.

(A false alarm with good intent).

ALB Launch Number 40

ILB Launch Number 49

Following a report of a wind surfer unconscious in the sea five hundred metres off shore in the Fort Fun Area.

Dover Coastguard requested the ILB launch, The All Weather Lifeboat was launched to assist the Inshore Lifeboat with the search.

Once on scene the ILB started a thorough search of the area reported. The ALB started a search of the coastline

from Sovereign Harbour in an easterly direction.

After the Area was thoroughly searched by boat Lifeboats and the Police helicopter and the Eastbourne Coastguard nothing untoward was found.

ALB Launch Number 39

Dover Coastguard requested the All Weather Lifeboat launch to the report of a sailing boat with its rudder entangled in fishing nets, in the Pevensey Bay area.

Once on scene the Coxswain Mark Sawyer confirmed with the crew of four persons on the casualty, that they had managed to free the fishing gear and were able to return to Sovereign Harbour under their own power.

The ALB escorted the sailing boat back to Sovereign Harbour.

casualty sailing back to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 38

STANDBY

The All Weather Lifeboat was requested to standby for launch to assist if required the Inshore Lifeboat, with the rescue of the two persons on the rocks close to Belle Toute.

ILB Launch Number 48

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched following a call to Dover Coastguard from members of the public, walking along the cliffs at Beachy Head in the Belle Toute area. The report was that they had heard calls for help from the rocks below.

Once on scene the Helmsman Dan Guy with two Crew members carefully manoeuvred the ILB in onto the rocks and recovered two persons trapped by the incoming tide.

The casualties informed Dan that they had started to walk from Birling Gap to Eastbourne unaware that the tide was rising and they would be in any form of peril.

The ILB transferred the two persons back to the beach at Birling Gap.

ALB Launch Number 37

As the All Weather Lifeboat was entering Sovereign Harbour from the callout to the dismasted sailing boat,

Dover Coastguard requested they divert to an area off shore close to the Grand Hotel.

Dover Coastguard had received a telephone call from a member of the public reporting two persons in difficulty in the sea between the Bandstand and the Grand Hotel.

Once on scene the Coxswain of the ALB confirmed with the casualties that they were professional swimmers and did not need assistance. (A report with good intent).

ALB Launch Number 36

The All Weather Lifeboat was requested to launch by Dover coastguard to assist a dismasted sailing boat fourteen miles south of Sovereign Harbour, in the shipping lane.

When on scene the skipper of the casualty informed the Coxswain of the ALB that he was able to proceed to Brighton Marina under his own power.

The ALB then escorted the the sailing boat to within a safe distance of Brighton Marina.

picture taken with a mobile telephone

ALB Launch Number 35

The All Weather Lifeboat was launched following a MAYDAY call relayed from a passing yacht, reporting that a thirty six foot sailing boat had been dismasted, position six miles south east of Sovereign Harbour.

                                     Approaching the casualty                                          Dan Guy transfering to casualty

           with passing yacht standing by

Once on scene one member of the Lifeboat crew transferred over to the casualty to make safe the damaged rigging ready for the tow back to Sovereign Harbour.

Dan makes the rigging safe

Once the rigging was secured the casualty was able to return to Sovereign Harbour under its own power. The ALB escorted the sailing boat back to Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 47

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to assist the Coastguard in the recovery of a body from Beachy Head.

Two members of the Eastbourne Coastguard were picked up from the beach at Hollywell and taken to Beachy Head, Once on scene the Coastguard operatives and three members of the ILB crew searched and located the casualty.

The ILB then transferred the casualty and the Coastguard personnel back to the Inshore Lifeboat station where the Coroners representatives were waiting.

ALB Launch Number 34

The All Weather Lifeboat was launched to assist a twenty five foot sports boat with what was reported, the casualty had lost its propeller.

When on scene the ALB crew passed a tow line over to the two persons on the sports boat and towed them back to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 33

ILB Launch Number 45

Dover Coastguard requested the Inshore Lifeboat launch to the report of two swimmers in difficulty close to the Bandstand, Eastbourne Seafront. Minutes later the All Weather Lifeboat was also launched to assist in the search. Once on scene, a search pattern was organised and both boats started a thorough search of the area west of Eastbourne Pier. The Coastguard and the Police helicopters were both involved in the search. One person was reported to have been recovered and was receiving first aid on the beach. After searching the area, Dover Coastguard reported that the Police found the missing person and he was safe.

Both Lifeboats were told to stand down.

ILB Launch Number 46

As both boats were starting towards their stations a report was received by Dover Coastguard that there was a person in the sea that appeared to be in difficulty,one hundred metres off the beach close to South Cliff area of Hollywell. After a search of the area, it was proved to be marker buoys for fishing lines.

(A report with good intentions).

Both Lifeboats then returned to station.

ALB Launch Number 32

The All Weather Lifeboat launched to a seven metre sailing boat with engine failure.

When on scene one mile east of Sovereign Harbour, a tow line was passed and the casualty was towed back to Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 44

ALB Launch Number 31

Following a radio call for medical assistance to Dover Coastguard, both boats were launched.

The casualty was an angler on a Charter boat, five miles south of Sovereign Harbour.

When on scene the Lifeboat Deputy Medical Advisor and a Lifeboat Crew member transferred from the Inshore Lifeboat to the charter boat to assess the condition of the casualty.

It was decided that as the Charter boat was already heading towards Sovereign Harbour that the casualty should stay on board.

Both Lifeboats escorted the charter boat back to Sovereign Harbour where an ambulance was standing by to transfer the angler to the District general hospital.

ALB Launch Number 30

The All Weather Lifeboat was launched to assist a thirty three foot sailing boat,unable to make way, due to the lack of wind and had engine failure.

When on scene,two miles East south east of Sovereign Harbour.one member of the three persons on board, transfered over to the ALB.

A tow line was rigged and the sailing boat was then towed to Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 43

Following a report to Dover Coastguard, that a small inflatable dinghy had been reported missing for one hour.

After a thorough search of the area from Pevensey Bay to Langney Point, the two persons reported missing were in fact found safe and well on the beach at Pevensey Bay, after the small inflatable was found on the shoreline just east of Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 42

Following a report to Dover Coastguard, that a small inflatable dinghy with four persons on board was in difficulty 100 metres off Fort Fun.

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched in a matter of minutes. Once on scene it was found that the dinghy and its four crew were in fact , safe and sound on the beach. A report with good intent.

ALB Launch Number 29

The All Weather Lifeboat had just washed down and refueled after monitoring the Eastbourne Air Show,

when Dover Coastguard requested them to re launch to assist a thirty eight foot sailing boat unable to make way.

The casualty with five persons on board was returning to Brighton after watching the Eastbourne Air Show and had electrical problems, resulting in engine failure.

When on scene one mile south west of Beachy Head the ALB passed over a tow line and towed the sailing boat to Sovereign Harbour.

photo by Hayley Beddows

ILB Launch Number 41

A telephone call from a member of the public to Dover Coastguard reporting a small dinghy was drifting 1 mile east of Eastbourne Pier, with three persons on board.

After a thorough search by the Inshore Lifeboat of the coastline and surrounding sea , nothing was found, Dover Coastguard requested the ILB to stand down and return to the Eastbourne Air Show.

ALB Launch Number 28

Whilst monitoring the Eastbourne Air Show, a call for assistance was received from a twenty five foot sailing boat with engine failure.

The All Weather Lifeboat was stationed just off the Wish Tower area, so it was close to the casualties reported position of one and a half miles off Beachy Head Lighthouse.

Once on scene one member of the crew transferred over to assist in rigging a tow line. The casualty was then towed to Sovereign Harbour.

Photo taken by Mark Chessell

ALB Launch Number 27

The All Weather Lifeboat was just leaving Sovereign Harbour to monitor the Eastbourne Air Show, when they received a radio call from a Commercial fishing boat (Meridian)reporting they had a fifty ton beam trawler in tow that had its nets wrapped around the propeller and rudder.

Once on scene one mile south of Sovereign Harbour the ALB took over the tow and carefully towed the casualty into Sovereign Harbour.

Once the casualty had been passed over to Sovereign Harbour, the All Weather Lifeboat proceeded to a position off Eastbourne seafront to monitor the Air show.

Photo by Mark Chessell

ALB Launch Number 26

ILB Launch Number 40

Whilst monitoring the Eastbourne Air Show, The Coxswain of The All Weather Lifeboat (Mark Sawyer), intercepted a radio message to the Eastbourne Coastguard.

The casualty, a twenty foot sports boat had engine failure,and was drifting, its reported position was just east of Sovereign Harbour.

Both boats immediately went to assist the sports boat.  The Inshore Lifeboat was the first on scene, and found that the casualty had run ashore at Normans Bay.

The ILB rigged a tow line and towed the casualty away from the shore, the tow line was then passed over to the ALB for the tow back to Sovereign Harbour.

Photo's by Mark Chessell

ILB Launch Number 39

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched following the report of a twenty foot fishing sports boat with engine failure, drifting just east of Eastbourne Pier.

The casualty was being held by another small craft, to stop it from being washed ashore as its anchor was not holding.

When on scene the ILB passed a tow line and towed the casualty back to Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 38

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to launch by Dover Coastguard to assist a ski boat with engine failure 1 mile off Eastbourne seafront in the area close to the Hydro Hotel.

Once on scene the ILB Helmsman confirmed that the casualty had no problem with its engine, after reporting this to Dover Coastguard the ILB was requested to return to station. (A false alarm with good intent).

ALB Launch Number 25

Dover Coastguard requested the All Weather LIfeboat launch, The casualty, a twenty eight foot motor cruiser en route from Ramsgate to Sovereign Harbour had engine failure.

Once on scene five miles north east of Sovereign Harbour.One member of the ALB Crew transfered over to assist the two persons on board the motor cruiser to lift the anchor and rig a tow line.

The ALB then proceeded to tow the casualty back to Sovereign Harbour.

photo taken by Jim Edwards

ILB Launch Number 37

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to launch to assist a twenty three foot sports cruiser with engine failure.

The casualty with four persons on board was half a mile east of Sovereign Harbour.

When on scene a tow was rigged and the vessel was towed back to Sovereign Harbour, whilst entering the harbour the ILB transferred one crew member over to the casualty and the tow position was altered to allow both boats to manoeuvre through the lock entrance and onto the pontoon in the lock.

ALB Launch Number 24

The All Weather Lifeboat Crew had just refueled and washed down the boat from the previous callout, when Dover Coastguard requested the ALB launch to a motor sailor a quarter of a mile off Eastbourne Pier with engine failure.

Once on scene a tow line was passed and the casualty with its crew of three and a dog was towed back to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 23

The All Weather Lifeboat launched to assist a twenty seven foot motor cruiser with four persons on board.

The casualty had reported that they had lost power, just west of Beachy Head Lighthouse.

When on scene the casualty advised the Coxswain of the ALB that they had managed to repair the fault and were  able to make way under there own power.

The ALB then escorted the motor cruiser back to Sovereign Harbour.

The ALB passing Beachy Head Lighthouse.                            ALB passing Trinity House Boat "Patricia"

                                                                                        whilst returning to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 22

Dover Coastguard requested the All Weather Lifeboat launch, to assist a twelve and half metre sailing boat with rope entangled around its propeller.

The casualty was on passage from Holland to the Caribbean with one person on board.

The skipper, a Dutch Lifeboat Man had reported to Dover that he was unable to make way and would need assistance.

When on scene, six miles south east of Sovereign Harbour, one Lifeboat Crew member transferred over to assist in rigging a tow line. Once the tow line was rigged the sailing boat was towed into Sovereign Harbour for repairs.

Three RNLI visitors were at Eastbourne Lifeboat Station when the page went out. This gave them first hand experience of an All Weather Lifeboat launching from Sovereign Harbour and the work that the Shore Crews have when a Lifeboat returns from a shout.

photo by Jim Edwards

ILB Launch Number 36

Following a report from a member of the public, Dover Coastguard requested the Inshore Lifeboat Launch.

The casualty a swimmer in difficulty fifty metres off the shore appeared to be struggling against the tide.

The Ilb was launched within five minutes of the pager requesting a launch.

Just as the ILB launched Dover called to advise that the casualty had made it ashore. It was agreed that the ILB would just check that all was well with the swimmer as they had already launched and were heading in the direction of the reported incident close to the Wish Tower.

ILB Launch Number 35

Following a report from a member of the public, Dover Coastguard requested the Inshore Lifeboat Launch.

The Ilb was launched within four minutes of the pager requesting a launch.

When on scene three hundred metres off the Sovereign Centre, the casualty, a wind surfer with damaged rigging,

was transferred along with his equipment to the beach.

ALB Launch Number 21

A fourteen metre twin masted sailing boat had telephoned Sovereign Harbour, reporting they had engine failure two miles south of Sovereign Harbour and needed assistance. The Harbour Office notified Dover Coastguard.

The All Weather Lifeboat was launched to assist. As the sea was so rough a Lifeboat crew member was passed over to assist the rigging of a tow line.

The casualty with its crew of six people was then towed to Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 34

After checking out the kite surfer, the ILB was preparing to return to station, when they were tasked to assist a twenty two foot sailing boat off Pevensey Bay.

When on scene the ILB Crew, It was established that the casualty had in fact got the kite surfers kite around its propeller.

The ILB then towed the sailing boat back to Sovereign Harbour.

Once the sailing boat had been handed over to the Harbour, the ILB returned to the 999 Emergency Services Display at the Western Lawns.

ILB Launch Number 33

The ILB was requested to launch, following a report from a member of the Public,to a windsurfer in trouble off Sovereign Harbour.

The windsurfer was in fact a kite surfer, and was found to be safe and sitting on the beach at Langney Point.

ILB Launch Number 32

Following a report from a member of the public, the ILB was launched to a swimmer possibly in trouble two hundred metres off the Redoubt.

When on scene the casualty was found to be a well none local swimmer was in fact enjoying his swim and was not in any danger. A report with good intent.

ILB Launch Number 31

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to launch by Dover Coastguard to assist in the recovery of a body from Beachy Head, in the area of the Sugar Loaf.

Once on scene the Ambulance Paramedics handed over the casualty to the four ILB Crew.

The ILB then returned to the ILB station and handed the casualty over to the Coroners Representative

ILB Launch Number 30

ALB Launch Number 20

Both Boats were launched to search in the Normans Bay area for two persons reported to have gone for a late night swim and were missing.

After ten minutes the casualties were found on the beach. Both boats were stood down and returned to station.

ILB Launch Number 29

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to assist the Coastguard in a search for a woman reported to have been sitting on the edge of the cliff at Beachy Head.

After a thorough search of the coastline and cliffs, no casualty was found. Both the ILB, local Coastguard and Birling Gap Coastguard were stood down and returned to station.

ILB Launch Number 28

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to search for an orange inflatable reported to be drifting with two persons off the end of Eastbourne Pier.

When on scene the inflatable was spotted near to the beach west of the pier.

The ILB was then stood down and returned to station.

ILB Launch Number 27

ALB Launch Number 19

Following a call from a member of the public to Dover Coastguard, the Inshore Lifeboat was launched to search for two persons in the sea off Pevensey Bay.

Minutes later the All Weather Lifeboat was also launched to assist in the search.

When on scene, the ILB made contact with the person on the beach that reported the missing persons. It was reported that the tide was taking the casualties in a easterly direction.

The ALB started a thorough search of the area, half a cable off shore, whilst the ILB searched the coastline for persons in the water or walking along the shoreline wearing the swimming costumes described by the woman that raised the alarm.

After approximately 15 minutes of searching, Dover Coastguard stood both boats down as the casualties had been located.

ILB Launch Number 26

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to assist two persons in a small inflatable, drifting away from the shore.

The casualty was approximately three hundred metres off shore in the vicinity of Periwinkles sea food shop just east of Eastbourne Pier.

Dover Coastguard requested the ILB launch following a call from a member of the public.

Both of the casualties were transferred to the shore in the ILB along with their inflatable.

ILB Launch Number 25

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched, following a report to Dover Coastguard by a member of the public that a sailing boat was in trouble off Hollywell.

The casualty, a Dart catamaran with two persons on board, had capsized about half a mile off Hollywell. When on scene, one member of the ILB crew transferred over and with the help of the ILB the craft was righted.

The Dart Catamaran then sailed back to the sailing club beach, escorted by the ILB, which then returned to station.

ILB Launch Number 24

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to the report of a body at the foot of the cliffs at Belle Toute, Beachy Head.

When on scene three of the ILB crew went onto the rocks and transferred the casualty to the ILB.

The ILB then returned to station whereupon the body was handed over to the

Coroners representative at the ILB station.

ILB Launch Number 23

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to assist a twenty three foot angling boat with engine failure.

When on scene three hundred metres off the Eastbourne Pier a tow line was passed over and the casualty was towed back to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 18

The All Weather Lifeboat launched following a radio call for assistance, to a twenty-seven foot motor cruiser half a mile off Cow Gap, Beachy Head.

When on scene, the casualty, which was en route from the Hamble to Sovereign Harbour with three persons on board, was found to have engine failure.

A tow line was passed and the casualty was towed to Sovereign Harbour.

picture taken from Beachy Head

ALB Launch Number 17

ILB Launch Number 22

Following a Mayday Call both boats were launched to the report of a unconscious diver three miles south of Beachy Head.

The All Weather Lifeboat along with Newhaven Lifeboat and the Coastguard Search and Rescue Helicopter 104

proceeded to the reported casualty.

The Inshore Lifeboat returned to Eastbourne and picked up the Deputy Lifeboat Medical Advisor Dr Stephen Lytton.

Dr Lytton and two of the ILB crew were transferred over to the Dive Boat to administer oxygen and first aid.

The casualty was then transferred over to the ALB where the Coastguard helicopter was able to winch the diver up and transferred him to Eastbourne District General Hospital.

Diver being lifted into helicopter for transfer to Eastbourne DGH

Both Eastbourne Lifeboats then proceeded to the Western Lawns area

for a photo shoot for the 999 display promotion.

ILB Launch Number 21

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to launch by Dover Coastguard, to assist in searching the coastline in the Belle Toute area of Beachy Head, following a report of car tyre marks on the cliff edge at Shooters Bottom.

No wreck or casualty was found in this area after a number of searches of the rocks and water line.

Whilst searching the Beachy Head area, a body was found, although believed to be nothing to do with the original report. The ILB was then stood down and returned to station whereupon the body was handed over to the

Coroners representative at the ILB station.

ALB Launch Number 16

The All Weather Lifeboat was requested by Dover Coastguard to launch to assist a twenty one foot sports boat with engine failure.

When on scene six miles east of Sovereign Harbour a member of the ALB crew was transferred over to the casualty to rig a tow line and check over the three persons on board.

One of the people on board the casualty had suffered a knock to the head and one other was suffering from sea sickness, the ALB crew member administered first aid and oxygen to the casualties.

The All Weather Lifeboat was preparing to launch on a training exercise with the Deputy Divisional Inspector and Deputy Divisional Engineer when the call to assist the sports boat was requested by Dover Coastguard. Both the RNLI officers were then involved in the rescue as observers.

Once the tow line was rigged the ALB towed the casualty back to Sovereign Harbour where the three persons from the sports boat were checked over by Paramedics.

At the same time as this rescue was in progress another boat was in distress just off Hastings sea front.

Hastings Lifeboat was launched and towed this casualty into Sovereign Harbour.

                                                                                            Hastings Lifeboat with casualty in lock                                                                     

ALB Launch Number 15

ILB Launch Number 20

Both the Inshore Lifeboat and the All Weather Lifeboat was launched to the report of kite surfer in difficulty in Pevensey Bay.

Both boats made a thorough search of the area from Sovereign Harbour to Cooden Beach Hotel.

No casualty was found after searching for an hour . Dover Coastguard then requested both boats stand down and return to station.

ALB Launch Number 14

The All Weather Lifeboat was launched to assist a sixteen foot angling boat with engine failure.

When on scene, seven miles south east of Sovereign Harbour, a tow line was passed to the two persons on board and the casualty was then towed back to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 13

The All Weather Lifeboat was requested to launch to assist a twentyone foot sports boat with mechanical failure.

When on scene approx three quarters of a mile off Cow Gap, Beachy Head, a tow line was passed and the casualty was towed back to Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 19

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to launch following a report of a kite surfer in trouble in Pevensey Bay.

The ILB launched within seven minutes of the page and proceeded to the reported area, between Pevensey Bay and Sovereign Harbour.

Whilst en route, Dover Coastguard radioed a message reporting that a person wearing a wet suit had swum out to the casualty, and would also need assistance.

When on scene, the ILB recovered the casualty and the swimmer and transferred them to the beach at the Moorings Pub at Pevensey Bay where the Coastguard operatives were waiting.

ILB Launch Number 18

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to the report from a member of the public that there were three persons in the sea off Bexhill believed to be in difficulty.

When on scene the Eastbourne ILB joined the Hastings ILB in a systematic search of the reported area.

After a thorough search, no casualties were found and both ILB's were stood down and returned to station.

A report with good intent.

ILB Launch Number 17

Following the release of the twenty six foot sports boat being towed into Sovereign Harbour lock,

the Inshore Lifeboat was requested by Dover Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard with the report of a person over Beachy Head.

After a time the Coastguard stood down the ILB and they returned to station.

ALB Launch Number 12

ILB Launch Number 16

Both boats were requested to launch to the report of a broken down 26ft sports boat being washed ashore at Cooden Beach, 

Once onscene two ALB crew were transfered ashore to rig a tow line and to assist in refloating the casualty.

The casualty was then towed into deeper water and the boat was checked for any water ingress the casualty was then towed back to Sovereign harbour where the ILB towed the boat into the lock.

ILB Launch Number 15

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to the report of a Kayaker seperated from his Kayak off the harbour entrance.

Once onscene the Kayak and Kayaker were recovered and landed back on the beach at Pevensey Bay.

ILB Launch Number 14

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to launch to assist the local Coastguard with the report of a person over Beachy Head.

The ILB, with a crew of four, was requested to stand by off Beachy Head whilst the Costguard recovered the casualty.

Once the Coastguard personel had completed their work and returned to the top of Beachy Head, the ILB was stood down and returned to station.

ILB Launch Number 13

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to recover an unmanned tender floating just off shore at Langney Point, The tender was recovered and towed back to Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 12

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to assist a wind surfer in difficulties off the harbour entrance,

The casualty was located and returned to the shore.

ILB Launch Number 11

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to investigate an object floating in the water off the Sovereign Centre.

The ILB was stood down shortly after launch as the object was confirmed to be a race mark for the sailing boats.

ILB Launch Number 10

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to assist the local Coastguard with the recovery of a body just east of the Beachy Head lighthouse.

The ILB and three of the Coastguard returned to the ILB station with the casualty where an ambulance was waiting.

ALB Launch Number 11

As the All Weather Lifeboat was entering Sovereign Harbour with the sailing boat a request from Dover Coastguard was received requesting the ALB to re launch to a sailing dingy that had capsized just off the shore at Bexhill.

When on scene the dismasted dingy was just being recovered on shore. The ALB was stood down and returned to station.

ALB Launch Number 10

The All weather Lifeboat was launched following a call to Dover Coastguard by a passer by, reporting that a sailing boat was in trouble just off Beachy Head.

When on scene it was found that the casualty had rigging problems and was close to the Beachy Head area.

The casualty had been unable to lower his spinnaker, so had manoeuvred the boat in a number of circles using it's engine to wind the sail around the mast.

The skipper of the casualty informed the Coxswain that he was able to enter Sovereign Harbour under Power, the ALB escorted the sailing boat back to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 9

ILB Launch Number 9

Following a MAYDAY call for assistance, Dover Coastguard requested both boats launch.

The casualty was a twelve foot jet ski boat with engine failure positioned approximately 1 mile east of Sovereign Harbour, with three persons on board.

When on scene, a tow line was rigged by the crew of the All Weather Lifeboat to stop the craft from drifting.

All three of the persons from the casualty were then transferred to the ALB by the Inshore Lifeboat crew for safety reasons.

One member of the ILB crew stayed on the ski boat whilst the craft was towed to the shore at Pevensey Bay by the Inshore Lifeboat. The three persons were then transferred to the shore by the ILB where the Local Coastguard were waiting.

ALB Launch Number 8

Following a request from Dover Coastguard the All Weather Lifeboat was launched to assist a seven metre rib (Dive boat).

The casualty was approximate seven miles south of Sovereign Harbour with engine failure.

Photo taken by Hayley Beddows using a mobile telephone.

ILB Launch Number 8

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to the report of two persons in the sea beneath Eastbourne Pier.

When on scene the casualties were found to be clinging to one of the steel supports under the Pier. Both people were recovered and taken to the shore and handed over to the waiting ambulance.

ILB Launch Number 7

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched to the report of a person in the water half a mile off the shore near to the ILB station.

When on scene the casualty was found to be a black bag. (A report with good intent).

ILB Launch Number 6

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to launch to assist local Coastguard's with the recovery of a body at Beachy head, once on scene two members of the ILB Crew were transferred to the shore to assist the Coastguard.

The casualty was transferred to the ILB along with two Coastguard's and taken back to ILB Station for recovery.

Photo taken of two ILB Crew members on rocks with Coastguard

ILB Launch Number 5

ALB Launch Number 7

Both boats were requested to launch following the report of a 20ft open top fishing boat that had steering and propeller damage after hitting rocks whilst recovering lobster pots. Due to weather condition the casualty reported that he would be blown ashore within ten minutes and required urgent assistance, Due to the location the ALB & ILB were launched to render assistance, with the ILB arriving on scene first a tow was commenced into deeper water awaiting the arrival of the ALB, which then escorted both boats back to the fishing vessels beach berth once ashore both Lifeboats returned to station.

ILB Launch Number 4

The Inshore Lifeboat launched to a small speed boat requesting assistance via a mobile phone, saying that there boat had engine failure. The Ilb launched with a crew of three and arrived on scene very quickly due to that fact that the boat with three people and a dog on board was approximately a quarter of a mile west of the ILB station.

When on scene the casualty was found to be in imminent danger of being washed up onto the shore.

The ILB crew rigged a tow line and started to tow the casualty back to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 6

Dover Coastguard requested the All Weather Lifeboat launch to a twenty eight metre charter fishing boat with engine failure 6 miles south of Sovereign Harbour.

When the ALB was half way to the casualty a call was received that the casualty had managed to start their engine and was slowly making way back to Sovereign Harbour.

The ALB then returned to Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 3

ALB Launch Number 5

Following the report of a person having jumped into the sea from Eastbourne Pier, both boats were requested to launch.

When on scene the ILB started to search round the stanchions of the Pier. After nothing was found the Helmsman started a parallel track search close inshore.

The ALB was requested by Dover Coastguard to start a sector search of the area where it was estimated the casualty could be, allowing for the drift with the tides.

Meanwhile the Coastguard Search And Rescue helicopter from Lee On Solent was requested to assist in the search.

After a thorough search of the area nothing was found and Dover Coastguard requested both Lifeboats and the helicopter stand down and return to station.

ILB Launch Number 2

ALB Launch Number 4

Dover Coastguard requested the Inshore Lifeboat to immediately launch to the aid of a person in the sea under Eastbourne Pier. (ILB launched after three minutes from page).

When on scene, the ILB with a crew of three started a systematic search of the supports of the Pier using a search light.

The casualty was reported to have climbed down into the sea from the fishing platform at the end of the Pier.

Meanwhile the All Weather Lifeboat had launched to assist the ILB in the search. The ILB crew found the casualty in the water under the fishing platform clinging to one of the steel supports.

Two members of the ILB crew entered the water to assist in getting the casualty into the ILB.

Once the casualty had been pulled from the water, the ILB headed towards the beach. Whilst on route to the beach the Paramedic Crewmember was transferred from The All Weather Lifeboat and went ashore with the ILB.

The ALB was then manoeuvred onto the shore to transfer the Lifeboat Deputy Medical Advisor and a Crew member to give the casualty oxygen and wrap him in thermal blankets, as he was by then suffering from hypothermia.

The casualty, after a matter of time, was then handed over to the ambulance crew for transfer to Eastbourne DGH.

Photo taken by Andy Chatton of section of pier where the casualty was found.

(Photo taken on following Sunday morning exercise).

ALB Launch Number 3

Dover Coastguard requested the All Weather Lifeboat launch to assist a twelve and a half metre vessel with engine failure.

The casualty a charter dive boat with three persons on board was four and a half miles South South East of Sovereign Harbour.

Once a tow line had been secured the casualty was towed back to Sovereign Harbour.

Casualty returning to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 2  

Standby 2

Following the report of a motor cruiser with engine failure close to Eastbourne Pier the All Weather Lifeboat was paged to launch.

The launch was cancelled following a radio call reporting a commercial fishing vessel had taken the casualty under tow.

ALB Launch Number 1 

Standby 1

From information received the All Weather Lifeboat was paged to launch to assist a sailing boat in difficulty in the harbour entrance.

The casualty had radioed to report it had struck a submerged object close to the entrance to Sovereign Harbour and had engine failure, before the ALB could launch the sailing boat managed to enter the harbour under sail.

The launch was stood down.

ILB Launch Number 1

The Police helicopter reported to Dover Coastguard that a body had been spotted on the rocks at Beachy Head.

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to recover the casualty. three Crew members of the ILB were landed just east of the lighthouse.

After searching for approximately twenty minutes the casualty was located, the ILB was moved along the shore so the crew and the casualty could board the craft.

The Inshore Lifeboat then returned to the ILB Station and handed the casualty over to the Police.