Callouts from 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2012

Eastbourne Lifeboats Callouts 2011

ILB Launch no 75

Vigilant members of the public alerted Dover Coastguard by dialling 999 when they spotted a windsurfer

in difficulties off Pevensey Bay

Unable to combat both wind and tide the windsurfer was struggling to make his way back to shore and was becoming exhausted. Fortunately, members of the public had observed his dilemma and alerted Dover Coastguard who immediately requested the launch of Eastbourne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat to assist. Before launching, the volunteer crew had to negotiate their way through traffic generated by bargain hunting shoppers but were still on scene within a few minutes. The windsurfer and his craft were taken aboard the ILB and returned safely to the beach from where he set out.

ILB Launch no 74

Dover Coastguard paged the LOM to request the ILB lifeboat be launched to assist Sussex Police and the Local Coastguard team recover a casualty from the rocks below Beachy Head close to the lighthouse.

The crew were paged and subsequently launched.

Whilst underway to the scene of the incident Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 104 from Lee-on– the- Solent arrived at the location and winched the casualty to the top of the cliff and into the care of the Sussex Police Coroner’s Officer.

The ILB was immediately ‘stood down’ returning to station to be refuelled and made ready for service once again.

ILB Launch no 73

The ILB was requested to launch to assist the Eastbourne Coastguard Team and Sussex Police with the recovery of a casualty on the foreshore below the cliffs at Shooters Bottom to the west of Beachy Head Lighthouse.

Once underway to Beachy Head a Coastguard Officer and a Police Officer were picked up at Holywell to help the ILB crew locate and transfer the casualty from the beach to the lifeboat.

The ILB returned to the lifeboat station and handed the casualty into the care of Sussex Police. The Lifeboat was refuelled and made ready for service once again.

ILB Launch no 72

ALB Launch no 62

Dover coastguard requested both lifeboats to launch to assist Sussex Police and the local coastguard team         along with the rescue helicopter 104 in recovering a casualty from the rocks below Beachy Head.

ILB Launch no 71

ALB Launch no 61

Both lifeboats were requested to launch to assist the Eastbourne and Birling Gap Coastguard in recovering a casualty from the rocks below Beachy Head. The callout occurred during the Annual Salvation Army Service. The crew left the Salvation Army Citadel immediately to attend and sadly missed much of the evening service.

The ILB recovered the casualty whilst the ALB stood by to assist with communications and to light up the area with searchlights. Once the task was completed both lifeboats returned to station. The casualty was handed to the care of Sussex Police whilst the boats were refuelled and made ready for service once again.

ALB Launch no 60

A lone yachtsman sailing his 32ft boat was saved from potential disaster by the vigilance of passersby when they reported their concerns to HM Coastguard having watched the erratic course of the yacht which had strayed dangerous close inshore.

Having received several 999 calls Dover Coastguard requested the launch of RNLI Eastbourne’s all weather lifeboat to investigate. Locating the vessel approximately one mile from the entrance to Sovereign Harbour heading inshore in shallow water lifeboat coxswain Mark Sawyer instructed the skipper to alter course immediately to avoid foundering on the beach. Having guided the yacht to safer water communications confirmed that the lone yachtsman had become disorientated in the darkness and was unable to locate the harbour entrance. Unwilling to accept assistance aboard his own vessel the yachtsman requested guidance into harbour. The ALB escorted the vessel into the locks at Sovereign Harbour where it was met by a waiting Coastguard official.

To watch the video of this rescue please click on the link below

video_detail?articleid=734391&stationid=117

ALB Launch no59

  ILB Launch No 70  

Whilst returning to station from a helicopter exercise in Eastbourne Bay the ALB crew saw two windsurfers in difficulty a short distance offshore from the Redoubt Fortress. The ILB alerted a local sailing school safety boat and both lifeboats stood by until the two windsurfers had been taken safely ashore.

ALB Launch no 58

ILB Launch no 69

Both Eastbourne RNLI lifeboats were launched into urgent service on Weds evening to a 30ft yacht which had run aground on Beachy Head Ledge and was taking on water at an alarming rate

A 30ft yacht with three people on board had misjudged the tides and currents around Beachy Head and had struck the submerged ledge with considerable force and had become holed. Two of the crew had managed to scramble across the rocks to shore leaving the skipper alone on board. On the limit of its operational ability, the inshore lifeboat with Peter Needham at the helm, skilfully manoeuvred into a position where crewman Andy Chatton could be put onto the ledge and negotiate his way across the treacherous rocks to the grounded yacht to render assistance. With the tide in full flood the sea conditions were becoming increasing more challenging as the rescue progressed. Andy managed to drop the yacht’s sails and thus reduce the pressure on the hull but too much damage had already been sustained and the water ingress was becoming severe. Peter used the ILB to ferry additional crewmen Dan Guy and Ian Stringer along with the powerful salvage pump from the all weather lifeboat to the stricken vessel whilst taking the shocked skipper to the safety of the ALB in a display of remarkable seamanship.

With the salvage pump unable to cope with the ingress of water through the multiple breeches in the hull the decision was taken by the combined rescue services that no more could be done to save the vessel which was still stuck fast on the rocks. As much deck gear and personal equipment as was possible was taken aboard the ILB and transferred to the ALB and the yacht abandoned to the sea. The ALB returned the yacht’s skipper to Sovereign Harbour where he was reunited with his crew.              

To watch the video of this rescue please click on the link below

video_detail?articleid=734034&stationid=117

ALB Launch no 57

The Aall-Weather lifeboat was launched into a dark and stormy night in response to a Mayday distress call from the 2125 tonne trawler Scombrus, 17 miles south of Sovereign Harbour, after a member of crew was lost overboard.

After steaming at maximum speed for well over an hour the ALB arrived on scene to find that the crewman, who was fortunately wearing his life jacket, had been located by his colleagues and recovered to his vessel having been in the water for over 30 minutes. Coastguard rescue helicopter 104 arrived on scene at approximately the same time as the lifeboat. Llifeboat crewmen Dr Stephen Lytton and paramedic Guy Emery were put aboard the trawler to assess the casualty who they found to be suffering from cold and shock; he had also sustained an injury to his ankle which would have made transfer to the lifeboat difficult. In the circumstances it was decided to airlift the casualty to the District General Hospital at Eastbourne.

In a skilful manoeuvre a man was lowered from the helicopter onto the rolling deck of the trawler to prepare the casualty for transfer. They were then lifted into the helicopter and transported to the new pad at the DGH.

The lifeboat meanwhile made its long way back to station where it was made ready for service.  

To watch the video of this rescue please click on the link below

video_detail?articleid=733177&stationid=117

picture of Trawler Scombrus extracted from the internet

ILB Launch no 68

Whilst on Sunday morning training exercise the Eastbourne ILB was requested by Dover Coastguard to proceed to Cooden Beach to investigate a report of a windsurfer in difficulties 100 metres offshore.

As the ILB made its’ way to the area, the coastguard reported the windsurfer as not to be in any difficulty and the lifeboat was released to continue on exercise'.

ALB Launch no 56

The All Weather lifeboat was launched to assist a small angling boat which had become entangled in discarded fishing nets three miles off Sovereign Harbour.

Once on scene volunteer crewman Tim Guy was transferred to the casualty vessel to rig a towline. The vessel was then returned to the safe water of the outer harbour where a workboat took over the tow and returned it to its berth.      

ILB Launch no 67

Dover Coastguard the Inshore Lifeboat tp launch following a report from Police Helicopter H900 that two people were apparently cut off by the flooding tide on the beach below the cliffs at Beachy Head.

When on scene the Eastbourne inshore lifeboat volunteer crew found that the couple were well aware of the tidal situation and were content to wait until their exit from the area was safe.

ALB Launch no 55

The All Weather lifeboat was launched at 01.30 this morning (27 Oct) at the request of Dover Coastguard to render medical assistance to a crewman aboard container ship Laura Schulte

in the South Westerly shipping lanes

Rendezvousing 16 miles SE of Eastbourne volunteer crewmen Doctor Stephen Lytton and paramedic Guy Emery were transferred in difficult sea conditions to the vessel. Tragically they were unable to help the 27 year old Filipino crewman who was pronounced dead on scene.

The ALB returned to station and was made ready for service at 04.00.   

picture of container ship Laura Schulte extracted from the internet

ALB Launch no 54

The All-Weather lifeboat was requested to launch in response to a ‘mayday’ distress call received by Dover Coastguard from a 32ft steel motor cruiser which had suffered engine failure whilst rounding the notorious ledge at Beachy Head.

The helpless vessel was being quickly swept westward in the ebbing tide and strong SE wind with three of the four persons on board suffering severe seasickness in the turbulent sea conditions. The skipper, unable to deploy his anchor, decided his best option was to request urgent assistance.

When on scene Dan Guy, deputy second coxswain and station mechanic, was transferred to the stricken vessel to deploy a drogue (a means of slowing a boat in a following sea) and to rig a towline. By this time the vessel had drifted to a position some three miles south of Beachy Head. Taking into account the condition of the casualties and the prevailing sea conditions, it was decided by Coxswain Mark Sawyer to take them to their nearest safe port of Newhaven. When in the calm of the outer harbour the volunteer lifeboat crew shortened the in-line tow, rigged a side by side tow and then skilfully manoeuvred the cruiser alongside a waiting pontoon where they were met by an ambulance crew who attended to the three casualties. The ALB then returned to Eastbourne arriving back four hours after the original call.  

To watch the video of this rescue please click on the link below

video_detail?articleid=731424&stationid=117

ALB Launch no 53

Eastbourne RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat (ALB) was diverted from crew training on Sunday morning when an apparently abandoned rowing boat was discovered floating over two miles offshore in Eastbourne Bay

The unmanned boat was reported to Dover Coastguard by the skipper of a passing 6 metre rib who stood by for the short time it took the ALB to arrive on scene. Following careful scrutiny of the vessel and the  surrounding sea area, and after consultation with Coastguard officers, it was assumed the vessel had been either washed off the beach in the high tide or had been maliciously cast adrift. The lifeboat crew conducted a brief search of the immediate area before towing the boat to the beach near Fisherman’s Green where it was made secure.   

ILB Launch no 66

Concerned onlookers alerted Dover Coastguard to a sailing dinghy with two people on board which appeared to be in difficulties whilst sailing in Eastbourne Bay

Following several knockdowns, observers on the beach became worried that the sailors were having trouble controlling their craft in the strong south-westerly winds and alerted HM Coastguard. In the absence of a safety boat the Iinshore Lifeboat was launched to ensure that the youngsters were able to cope with the prevailing conditions. Having established that the sailors were in no immediate danger the ILB stood by whilst the dinghy was sailed to safer waters closer inshore.

ALB Launch no 52

The All Weather Lifeboat with acting Coxswain Dan Guy (Mechanic, Deputy Second Coxswain, ILB Helmsman)

collected a yacht from near the safe water mark after normal Sunday training and towed it to the outer harbour where the harbour work boat took over.

The 34 ft. Moody was unable to start it’s engine the previous evening and decided to anchor off in the hope they could sort their problem in the morning.

ILB Launch no 65

The inshore lifeboat was launched to assist a small angling boat with one person on board which had suffered engine failure just 400 metres from the lifeboat station.

At anchor and in no immediate danger, the angling boat skipper was happy to wait the few minutes necessary to assemble the volunteer lifeboat crew and launch to his assistance. When the ILB was on scene the anchor was retrieved and the boat was towed to the angling club beach and assisted ashore.    

ILB Launch no 64

Sunday evening concerned onlookers on Eastbourne promenade alerted Dover Coastguard to a swimmer in apparent difficulties west of the pier. The ILB was quickly on scene and escorted the female swimmer ashore. Despite being a strong swimmer she was unfamiliar with tidal waters and had been unable to make way against the current and had become exhausted.

ILB Launch no 63

The Inshore Lifeboat launched following a report that a 7 metre sportsboat had also suffered engine failure.

On this occasion the crew aboard the sportsboat managed to restart their engine and were able to make their own way back to harbour.

ILB Launch no 62

Dover Coastguard received a Pan-Pan distress call from a 4 metre rib which had suffered engine failure four miles Southeast of Sovereign Harbour. The volunteer ILB crew took the vessel under tow and returned it to the safety of the marina locks.

ILB Launch no 61

Eastbourne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat went to the rescue of two people and their three dogs when they became trapped by the tide after one of the dogs became exhausted and was unable to escape from the beach below

cliffs at Beachy Head.

The group had set out with the intention of completing their walk before high tide but the plan went wrong when one of the dogs sustained a cut paw. The delay caused them to become trapped by the incoming tide. In no immediate danger they thought to wait until the water receded, but the injured dog began showing signs of distress so urgent action was taken. Unable to use mobile telephones in the shadow of the cliffs they attracted the attention of a passing boat whose skipper contacted Dover Coastguard who in turn requested the launch of Eastbourne’s inshore lifeboat.

When on scene senior helmsman Dave Needham put his colleague Andy Chatton ashore to assess the situation. With the dog showing signs of dehydration and exhaustion, and with two hours to wait for the tide to recede, it was decided to ferry the whole group to the safety of the steps at Birling Gap. Unable to negotiate the steps unaided Andy was forced to carry the large Labrador up the steps and off the beach.

Amid much tail wagging (by the dogs) the rescued group were reunited and set off to visit a local vet,

meanwhile the volunteer lifeboat crew returned to station.           

ILB Launch no 60

ALB Launch no 51

Both RNLI Eastbourne lifeboats were involved in a two hour search in the early hours of Thursday morning

when a woman was reported missing and thought to be near the water’s edge.

Amid fears that the woman may had entered the sea near the Eastbourne bandstand, Police and Coastguard officers requested the assistance of RNLI lifeboats in their search of the area. A floating object was seen from the beach and the volunteer lifeboat crew were tasked to investigate. The object was soon found to be discarded litter washed out to sea by the high tide.

The search was eventually stood down when reports were received that the missing woman was in police custody.

ILB Launch no 59

ALB Launch no 50

Both Eastbourne RNLI’s lifeboats were launched yesterday evening (Mon 26 Sept) to assist Coastguard cliff rescue personnel with the recovery of a deceased pet dog which had tragically fallen from the cliffs at Beachy Head.

Fearful that the distraught dog owner would attempt the extremely hazardous undercliff walk in the dark and on a rising tide to recover his pet, the emergency services were scrambled to undertake the task. As is normal procedure when operating at Beachy Head after dark, both volunteer lifeboat crews were deployed to the incident. When on scene the lifeboats stood by in a safety backup role whilst the cliff rescue team completed the recovery. 

ILB Launch no 58

ALB Launch no 49

Following numerous telephone calls to the emergency services reporting flashing lights off the coast of Eastbourne, Dover Coastguard requested the launch of both RNLI lifeboats to investigate.

Shortly after 9pm on Sunday evening both lifeboats launched into slight seas and clear conditions to investigate white and red flashing lights which were observed along the coast of Eastbourne from Beachy Head to Cooden Beach. When on scene it soon became apparent to the volunteer lifeboat crews that the lights were fluorescent strobes used by local fisherman to mark their submerged drift nets. Due to the clear conditions the lights were visible from vast distances. When it was obvious that no one was in immediate danger the crews were stood down. Before returning to station the inshore lifeboat diverted to a visiting yacht which was heading towards the fishing gear and directed them to a safe route through the obstructions.

Although the incident was logged as a false alarm with good intent lifeboat coxswain Mark Sawyer commented that there were a number of positive elements to be gained. “It’s good that the public remain vigilant and know how to raise the alarm by contacting  HM Coastguard,” he said, and continued by saying “credit should also be given to our local fisherman who mark their hidden gear in a responsible manner so that other mariners can have a safe passage.” Mark also paid tribute to his volunteer crew who responded extremely quickly at a particularly unsocial time.   

ILB Launch no 57

ALB Launch no 48

Both Eastbourne RNLI lifeboats and Coastguard rescue helicopter 104 were scrambled last night (Thurs 22 Sept) when a diver was late in surfacing from a group dive.

The divers, who were taking part in a training exercise, became concerned when one of their group failed to surface at his agreed time. Following standard procedure the party immediately informed Dover Coastguard who mobilised the rescue services.

Eastbourne RNLI’s volunteer crew assembled and launched their new inshore lifeboat within four minutes of the Coastguard request and were on scene in Pevensey Bay a few minutes later. The All Weather lifeboat was also quickly on scene. Fortunately, much to the relief of all concerned, the missing diver surfaced to coincide with the arrival of the two lifeboats. Inshore ILB helmsman Andy Chatton went ashore to confirm that all was well with the group and having established that it was.

The combined services were stood down by Dover Coastguard who in doing so congratulated the volunteer lifeboat crew on their extremely rapid response.    

New ILB during acceptance trials.

ILB Launch no 56

Following a mobile telephone call from a fisherman in Pevensey Bay with engine problems,

Dover Coastguard requested the Inshore Lifeboat launch to assist.

When on scene the ILB crew rigged a tow line and towed the casualty back to the beach adjacent to the Inshore Lifeboat Station.

         Picture of casualty being towed back from Pevensey Bay by ILB

Helmsman Andy Chatton and Crew members Paul Rogers and Peter Needham.

The ILB skillfully manoeuvring the fishing boat onto the beach.

ILB Launch no 55

Following on from the previous night’s incident the ILB was launched to recover the casualty from the rocks at Beachy Head close to the lighthouse.

ALB Launch no 47

ILB Launch no 54

Both boats were requested to launch to assist the local Coastguard team following a report of a casualty on the beach between the Belle Tout Lighthouse and the Beachy Head Lighthouse.

Once on scene the members of the ILB crew went ashore to locate the casualty whilst the ALB stood off to assist with communications.

A decision to return early next morning to remove the casualty was taken as the light was fading fast and the conditions were inappropriate to complete the task.  

ILB Launch no 53

Whilst completing the closing down procedures from the previous callout the Inshore Lifeboat crew were requested by Dover Coastguard to immediately launch once again to investigate a report of an upturned hull of boat.

Once on scene it was discovered the report to be a sailing marker buoy.

The ILB was released and returned to station."

The incident was logged as ‘a false alarm with good intent’.

ALB Launch no 46

ILB Launch no 52

Seven people and their pet dog had to be rescued by Eastbourne lifeboats on Sunday afternoon when their small overloaded angling boat became swamped in the surf shortly after launching from Norman’s Bay.

The group aboard their 18ft vessel got into difficulties shortly after launching from the beach, unable to start their engine and taking on water they deployed an anchor in the heavy swell. With no safety equipment on board a frantic mobile phone call was made to Dover Coastguard. Fortunately a concerned member of the public on the beach had also made contact with Dover from an emergency telephone on the promenade. Both Eastbourne RNLI lifeboats were launched, the inshore lifeboat (ILB) from its boathouse at Fishermans Green and the all-weather lifeboat (ALB) from the RNLI regatta arena where it was open for public viewing.

Soon on scene the volunteer ILB crew transferred the group to the inshore lifeboat and took them ashore whilst the ALB held station close by. The ILB then attempted to tow the stricken vessel into shallow water but the heavy swell overcame the boat and it sank a few metres from the beach. The volunteer lifeboat crew took a line ashore and the vessel was hauled up the beach and clear of the surf.    

ALB Launch no 45 (Standby)

  Following a request from Dover Coastguard to launch the Eastbourne ALB to a yacht in difficulties close to Eastbourne Pier following a possible ‘knock down’ the lifeboat crew were paged.

Whilst assembling for the launch it was reported that the yacht had overcome its’ problems and was sailing quite happily. The crew ‘stood down’ and the incident was reported as ‘a false alarm with good intent’.

 ALB Launch no 44

ILB Launch no 51

Both Eastbourne RNLI lifeboats were launched on Saturday afternoon during an open day on the All Weather lifeboat (ALB) when a 42ft yacht with two people on board suffered a spinnaker broach in strong winds and sustained damage to their mainsail.

Local fishing vessel Beachy Head observed the initial incident and alerted Dover Coastguard to the yacht’s dilemma. Both Eastbourne lifeboats were requested to launch in response. Visitors aboard the ALB were quickly escorted ashore and the ALB launched from the RNLI regatta arena. The yacht recovered from the initial broach (a broach occurs when the wind overpowers the boat and lays it on its side) but the crew were unable to prevent three more broaches and the powerful sails began dragging the vessel sideways in the brisk 30 knot winds.

Two volunteer lifeboat crewmen were put aboard the casualty vessel and managed to recover both the spinnaker and the torn mainsail. The yacht was then escorted to the safety of Sovereign Harbour.   

 ALB Launch no 43

A ‘Pan-Pan’ distress call was received from a 29ft motor cruiser which had lost engine power close inshore in Pevensey Bay and was helplessly drifting in the tide.

Dover Coastguard requested the launch of the all weather lifeboat which was quickly on scene. A towline was rigged and the vessel was returned to the locks at Sovereign Harbour.  

ILB Launch no 50

Dover Coastguard requested the Inshore Lifeboat launch following a report from bystanders that two young people were in difficulties trying to return to the beach at Pevensey in an inflatable dinghy and that a third person was swimming out to their assistance.

When on scene the crew found the youths had fortunately made their way safely ashore.

ILB Launch no 49

the inshore lifeboat (ILB) was launched to assist coastguard and police officers

with the recovery of a casualty at Beachy Head.

ILB Launch no 48

 ALB Launch no 42

Both boats were launched on Saturday afternoon when it was reported that a large group of people were cut off by the tide under the cliffs at Beachy Head.

When on scene the lifeboat crews found the group enjoying a barbecue on the beach and were quite content to wait for the tide to recede.

ALB Launch no 41

ILB Launch no 47

Both Lifeboats were launched again when a 42 ft yacht with five people on board fell foul of the very low tides

and went aground on submerged rocks close to the pier.

The Inshore lifeboat (ILB) crewmember Alan Simister was put aboard the yacht to assist with communications and rigging a towline.

When on scene ALB Coxswain Mark Sawyer advised the yacht crew of their best option to drag themselves clear, the vessel was then taken under tow as damage had been sustained to their rudder in the original grounding. In a skilful manoeuvre, involving a great deal of local knowledge, the casualty vessel was tentatively threaded through the unseen obstructions to deeper water with the ILB in close attendance.

Once clear of the rocks the casualty was taken to Sovereign Harbour.           

ALB Launch no 40

The All Weather lifeboat (ALB) was launched following a distress call from a yacht rounding Beachy Head which was unable to make way under sail and which lost engine power at the same time.

The notoriously turbulent waters around the headland were rapidly sweeping the vessel uncontrolled westward. The casualty was located two miles from its original location and towed to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch no 38/39

ILB Launch 44/45/46

Both Eastbourne lifeboats were diverted from standby duties at the ‘Airbourne’ airshow on Friday (12 Aug) to assist with two vessels going aground in quick succession near the entrance channel to Sovereign Harbour

and later to two breakdowns.

The drama started when a small sportsboat with three people on board suffered a mechanical failure on its approach to harbour and got swept onto the rocks of the harbour arm. The incident was observed by the lock keeper who alerted Dover Coastguard who in turn requested the diversion of Eastbourne inshore lifeboat (ILB) from the airshow.

Meanwhile a 32ft yacht being sailed single handed, which was following the sportsboat into harbour, went to their assistance but whilst attempting to tow them clear of the rocks suffered an engine failure and also went aground. The drama continued when a third vessel arrived on scene; the crew of a motor cruiser tried to tow the two vessels clear but only managed to cause damage to their own boat and had to abort the attempt.

Fortunately it didn’t take long for the inshore lifeboat to arrive on scene to restore some calm. The volunteer crew quickly took the sportsboat under tow and deposited it into the harbour locks and then returned to assist the stranded yacht. Despite their best efforts, even with the assistance of the harbour workboat which was also on scene by this time, they were unable to break it free from the sand on a rapidly falling tide. With time running out, the ALB helmsman called for the assistance of the All Weather lifeboat which was still on duty at the airshow. Within seconds the ALB was on its way back to harbour. A towline was quickly rigged and in a combined effort the yacht was dragged off the sand and handed to the harbour workboat which took it to the safety of the marina. Both lifeboats then returned to their standby positions at the airshow.

To end a busy day afloat, the ALB was requested to assist a yacht with engine failure which had been at anchor all day at the airshow. The volunteer crew rigged a tow and took the vessel back to harbour.

Within an hour of being released, the inshore lifeboat crew were paged to launch to a jet ski which had broken down just outside Sovereign harbour. The rider and craft were returned to harbour and the lifeboat crew were finally stood down.             

ALB Launch no 37

A telephone request was made by Dover coastguard to the LOM for the launch of the All Weather lifeboat to a grounded yacht close to the entrance to Sovereign Harbour.

The crew were paged and launched to the vessel only to find the skipper had decided to ground the yacht awaiting the next high tide later in the day. With no further action to be taken the lifeboat was ‘stood down’ and returned to station.

ALB Launch no 36

 Dover coastguard requested the launch of the All Weather lifeboat to a yacht with engine problems

close to the entrance of Sovereign Harbour.

As the crew assembled the yacht moored itself to a fairway buoy. The lifeboat crew launched to the casualty using the ‘boarding boat’ to discover its’ engine compartment full of smoke. Once all the smoke had been vented off it was revealed the cause being an overheated seawater pump.

The vessel was then towed into the locks by the ‘harbour work boat’ and the crew stood down.

ILB Launch no 43

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched following a 999 call to Dover Coastguard regarding the sighting of a person at the foot of the cliffs at Beachy Head thought to be cut off by the rising tide.

When on scene at Falling Sands the volunteer crew found nothing out of place. An angler was questioned who indicated that a walker had just left the beach via the steps at Cow Gap. Following a further search of the area the crew were stood down and returned to station.     

ILB Launch no 42

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched in response to a 999 call to Dover Coastguard when two swimmers

appeared to be in difficulties whilst taking an evening dip in the sea from the beach east of Eastbourne pier.

The ILB was launched with immediate effect at the request of Dover Coastguard and were on scene within six minutes to find the swimmers making their own way ashore. They were escorted ashore and given safety advice by the volunteer lifeboat crew.

ILB Launch no 41 (Standby)

In the early hours of the morning Dover Coastguard requested an immediate launch of the Inshore Lifeboat following a report of a person in the sea close to Eastbourne Pier.

As the crew prepared to launch, the casualty was pulled from the calm waters by a friend. The launch was cancelled and the crew were stood down.

ILB Launch no 40

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched following a report from a concerned member of the public that what appeared to be a capsized dinghy was drifting three quarters of a mile offshore from Fisherman’s Green.

When on scene the volunteer crew found a bunch of party balloons drifting in the tide. With no evidence of Winnie the Pooh being in the immediate vicinity, the balloons were retrieved and the lifeboat returned to station where it was refuelled and made ready for service.  

ALB Launch no 35 (Standby)

The Eastbourne all-weather lifeboat was requested to launch to a small craft with engine failure close to the entrance of Sovereign Harbour.

A crew assembly was in progress as the vessel’s owner managed to re-start the engine and make a safe passage into the lock. The lifeboat crew stood down.

ALB Launch no 34

The All Weather lifeboat went to the assistance of the Shoreham registered beam trawler Jack Henry when it began taking on water over three miles off Beachy Head.

The crew aboard the 38 tonne trawler became concerned when they realised they were taking on water and that their bilge pumps were unable to cope with the ingress. Fortunately for them they spotted an experimental lifeboat on passage to Dungeness close by and called for assistance. The communications between the two vessels was broken and so Dover Coastguard requested the launch of Eastbourne RNLI’s lifeboat to assist.       

A salvage pump from the experimental lifeboat was put aboard the Jack Henry which reduced the water level sufficiently to enable remedial action to be taken. Meanwhile Eastbourne lifeboat stood by with their salvage pump at the ready if required. When all was secured the experimental boat continued its passage and Eastbourne ALB escorted the trawler to Belle Tout lighthouse and then returned to station.

ILB Launch no 39

Whilst in attendance covering the Eastbourne Maritime Weekend Marathon Swim the Eastbourne ILB was requested to divert to a broken down angling boat some three miles off the coast.

Once on scene the ILB towed the stricken craft safely to its’ beach berth and then returned to station.

ALB Launch no 33

The All Weather lifeboat was launched to assist an 8 metre sports boat which had become stranded with engine failure 8 miles off Eastbourne.

The sports boat with two people on board was on passage from the Isle of Wight to Eastbourne when it suffered a loss of engine power with suspected fuel starvation. The couple were forced to deploy their anchor to avoid being taken up in the ebbing tide and call Dover Coastguard for assistance. Dover then requested the launch of the ALB.

Quickly on scene, the volunteer lifeboat crew passed a line to the disabled vessel and delivered it skillfully to the safety of the locks at Sovereign Harbour. The lifeboat was then refueled and made ready for service.

ALB Launch no 32

The All Weather lifeboat went to the aid of a Hillyard 9 ton cutter when it suffered mechanical problems whilst on passage from Rye to its home port in Falmouth which meant the crew were unable to start their engine.

The couple aboard the classic yacht were making extremely slow progress tacking against the SW wind under sail alone and decided to contact Dover Coastguard for assistance. Eastbourne RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat was launched and rendezvoused with the casualty vessel three miles off Eastbourne. Crew member Guy Emery was transferred to the yacht and rigged a towline. The vessel was then towed to the safety of Sovereign harbour for repairs.    

ALB Launch no 31

A 26ft cruiser with two people onboard was left stranded on Sunday morning (10 July) when discarded fishing gear got entangled around its propeller whilst on passage to the Isle of Wight.

The vessel was 12 miles out from Eastbourne when the accident happened. Unable to clear the obstruction the couple were forced to call for assistance from Dover Coastguard who requested the launch of Eastbourne RNLI’s all weather lifeboat. When the ALB arrived at the location given the volunteer crew found that the cruiser had drifted to the west on the strong tide and was close inshore and in danger of being swept onto the rocks at the foot of the cliffs. Deputy second coxswain Paul Rogers was put aboard the casualty vessel to rig a tow line; the vessel was then returned to the safety of Sovereign Harbour for remedial works.

ALB Launch no 30

Dover Coastguard requested the launch of both Eastbourne RNLI’s lifeboats on Friday evening (8 July) to assist with the recovery of a casualty from the rocks at the foot of Beachy Head cliffs.

When on scene the heavy swell would have made getting ashore by the volunteer lifeboat crew unnecessarily hazardous so the decision was made for Coastguard Officers to recover the casualty by rescue helicopter 104. It was then passed to the waiting Police Coroner.

ALB Launch no 29

Unable to fix the problem and motor into the brisk South-Westerly wind they requested assistance from Dover Coastguard who in turn requested the launch of the All Weather lifeboat. The volunteer ALB crew were paged just before 7am and were on scene four miles offshore less than 30 minutes later.

Deputy Coxswain/Mechanic Dan Guy was transferred to the stricken vessel and rigged a towline and drogue for the return to Sovereign Harbour. The vessel was taken through the marina locks and safely delivered to a waiting pontoon.

ILB Launch no 38

Communication via mobile phone was difficult and confused as several boats were in the area and it was at first thought from bystanders on the beach that their problem had been resolved and the vessel was under way. Eastbourne inshore lifeboat was eventually launched to investigate. When on scene the volunteer crew found that the casualty vessel had been taken under tow by one of the professional fishing fleet from Sovereign Harbour. The tow was transferred to the ILB and the angling boat returned to the safety of the beach in Pevensey Bay.

ALB Launch no 28 (Standby)

ILB Launch no 37

A sports boat with five people on board made contact with Sovereign Harbour requesting assistance when they got too close inshore at low tide off the Grand Hotel and hit an underwater obstruction which damaged their propeller.

Unable to make way they deployed their anchor and awaited help. The harbour lock keeper relayed the message to Dover Coastguard who requested the launch of the ILB. On scene within a few minutes the volunteer ILB crew took the vessel under tow to the safety of Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch no 36

At shortly after 2pm Dover Coastguard received a call from a distraught dog owner when their pet Terrier decided to play catch-up with a seagull.

Concerned that the owner might do something reckless and swim after the dog, they requested the launch of the ILB. The dog soon found its own way ashore and was reunited with its relieved owner.

ALB Launch no 27

Eastbourne RNLI’s all weather lifeboat was launched this afternoon when Coastguard officers received an emergency distress call from a mobile phone saying that a large Spanish yacht with two people aboard was in difficulties in the vicinity of the Sovereign Tower off Eastbourne.

Dover Coastguard enlisted the assistance of an interpreter to gather information from the casualty regarding their position and status before the call was unexpectedly terminated. In addition to tasking the Eastbourne lifeboat to the scene, several other vessels in the area were asked to join the search.

Eventually after steaming 10 miles out to sea and searching for over two hours, the lifeboat received notification from the search and rescue authorities in Madrid that the mobile phone had been traced to a Spanish student attending a summer language school in Eastbourne.

The volunteer lifeboat crew were stood down and subsequently returned to station where the ALB was made ready for service and refueled with over 260 litres of diesel.

A spokesman later commented that the RNLI relies entirely on voluntary contributions and legacies for its existence and that it was extremely disappointing that people should waste the precious resources of a charitable organisation in such a thoughtless way.

He added that it was indeed fortunate that a genuine emergency didn't’t occur at the same time.

ALB Launch no 26

The All Weather lifeboat (ALB) went to the assistance of a 32ft motor cruiser with two people on board when it was left drifting in the tide four miles offshore after suffering an electrical failure which meant the couple were unable to start their engine.

Contact was made from the cruiser to Dover Coastguard via VHF radio who requested the launch of the ALB. Guided to the location with their sophisticated direction find equipment the lifeboat was quickly on scene. The volunteer crew rigged a towline and the vessel was returned to Sovereign Harbour where it was passed to a harbour work boat.

ALB Launch no 25

Three anglers aboard their 17ft boat suffered a double setback 4 miles off Eastbourne when not only had their anchor become fouled on a hidden obstruction but they were also unable to start their engine.

The three men had set out from the local angling club without a working VHF radio and were forced to dial 999 on their mobile phone for assistance. Fortunately they were able to contact HM Coastguard who requested the launch of the All Weather lifeboat (ALB). Shortly after the lifeboat was launched the mobile phone signal failed and the volunteer lifeboat crew were forced to conduct a search of the area to find the casualty.

Eventually the stricken vessel was located and the fouled anchor recovered using the ALB’s powerful winch. The vessel was then taken under tow and returned to the Angling Club beach.

ILB Launch no 35 (Standby)

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to launch immediately to a report of two children swimming with difficulty approximately 100yds off the Eastbourne Angling Association beach.

Just three minutes following the initial report the children had managed to swim ashore and all were reported as safe and well. The launch of the ILB was cancelled.

ALB Launch no 24

The All Weather lifeboat (ALB) was launched for the second time on Friday (24th June) this time to assist an 11 metre sailing yacht which had suffered a mechanical failure on its approach to Sovereign Harbour.

The yacht with two people aboard was on passage to Eastbourne when it suffered an engine malfunction which prohibited their safe entry into Sovereign Harbour. Contact was made with Dover Coastguard who requested the launch of Eastbourne’s ALB to assist. On scene within a few minutes, a towline was passed to the experienced yachtsman. When the towline had been rigged, the casualty vessel was taken under tow to the safety of the harbour locks.

ALB Launch no 23

Eastbourne’s All Weather Lifeboat and Hastings Inshore Lifeboat were launched shortly after 4am this morning in response to a Mayday distress call from a 16 year old youth

whose small angling boat was sinking off Cooden Beach.

When the lifeboats arrived on scene there was no sign of the 14ft boat but fortunately the young man was able to fire a flare to attract attention. He was found clinging to his buoyant flare container and plucked from the water by the volunteer crew aboard the Hastings ILB and taken ashore to a waiting ambulance suffering from cold and shock.

Eastbourne ALB then conducted a search of the area to try and locate the stricken vessel but there was no sign and the search was later abandoned.

The young man was known to both lifeboat crews and had sensibly taken previous advice on equipping himself with some basic safety equipment. Mark Sawyer, Coxswain of Eastbourne lifeboat commented that this advice undoubtedly saved his life today. “Not only was he able to call for assistance from Dover Coastguard and fire a flare to attract attention but he was also able to cling onto the buoyant waterproof flare container. As a result he was only in the water for 15 minutes or so, any longer and the outcome could well have been far more serious.”

Photo of casualty taken in Sovereign Harbour lock in May 2011  

ILB Launch No 34

Whilst on an Inspection Exercise the Eastbourne ILB was alerted to a report of an upturned rowing skiff/single scull off Splash Point near the Redoubt Fortress.

The ILB was immediately diverted to investigate the report. Once on scene the volunteer crew discovered the 'skiff' had been pulled ashore by the intrepid rower and all was safe and well. The ILB returned to the exercise with the Eastbourne ALB.

ILB Launch no 33 (Standby)

Dover Coastguard requested an immediate launch of the Inshore Lifeboat following a report of a person entering the sea near the Wish Tower in the early hours of the morning.

Within a few minutes of the crew assembly the launch was cancelled. The person had been pulled from the sea by an on duty policeman.

ILB Launch no 32

The Inshore Lifeboat was requested to launch by Dover Coastguard in response to a report from a shore side resident that a wind surfer was in difficulties in Eastbourne Bay. 

The observer, a retired lifeboat crew member, realised that the wind surfer had lost his sail 800 metres offshore. On arrival at the location given, there was no sign of the casualty. Volunteer crewman Andy Chatton was put ashore to question members of the public but with no success. Later further information from Dover Coastguard confirmed the wind surfer had made it safely ashore.  

Earlier that day Coxswain Mark Sawyer and Press Officer Bob Jeffery of Eastbourne RNLI’s lifeboats thought they were leaving Sovereign Harbour early on Friday morning aboard Bob’s yacht Tortola Sunset to enjoy a quiet weekend sailing across the English Channel to Dieppe, instead they became involved in the rescue of a stranded vessel at the harbour entrance.

Having reached the harbour entrance they encountered a yacht which had lost engine power and was in danger of being swept onto the rocks of the harbour arm. As a natural reaction assistance was offered and readily accepted. The 9 metre yacht, with two people aboard, was then taken under tow and returned to the harbour locks.

ILB Launch no 31

A man was rescued from the water along with his two companions who were still aboard their small inflatable craft which was adrift in Eastbourne Bay on Saturday afternoon following a failure of their outboard engine.

The group thought their craft was capable of handling the prevailing conditions and decided to set out for a short cruise in the sunshine. Unfortunately the outboard engine failed, and having no oars they found themselves unable to return to shore. Without means of attracting attention, one of the party decided to swim ashore towing the craft and its two occupants behind him. He soon found he was unable to combat the effects of wind and tide and quickly became exhausted. Fortunately their dilemma was being observed by a vigilant bystander on shore who contacted HM Coastguard.

Eastbourne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was launched and the volunteer crew were able to take the swimmer aboard the ILB and tow the inflatable and its occupants safely ashore.

ILB Launch no 30

The Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) was launched ‘with immediate effect’ at the request of Dover Coastguard to go to the assistance of a swimmer who had been swept under the pier by the heavy swell and brisk winds.

A concerned member of public had seen the 21 year old male being caught up in the heavy swell and carried under the pier amongst the pier support structures and had  alerted Dover Coastguard. The swimmer managed to pull himself onto a support beam, sustaining grazing from encrusted barnacles to his arms and legs.

Having assembled and launched the ILB, the volunteer crew were on scene in less than 8 minutes of the initial request. After several attempts they were able to skilfully manoeuvre the ILB under the pier and pluck the casualty from his perch and into the lifeboat. He was taken ashore and treated for suspected shock and hypothermia until the arrival of an ambulance which took him to Eastbourne hospital.

To watch the video of this rescue please click on the link below

getvideo

In releasing the lifeboat, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre at Dover thanked the volunteer crew for their speedy attendance and rescue.     

ALB Launch no 22

The All Weather lifeboat (ALB) was launched shortly after midnight today to assist a visiting cruiser from France which had become caught up in fishing gear whilst entering Sovereign Harbour.

The 7.5 metre cruiser with two people aboard was part of a flotilla which had travelled across the English Channel during the day. Their welcome to Eastbourne was marred when approaching the entrance channel to Sovereign Harbour they become entangled in unlit fishing gear. Unable to free themselves they requested assistance from Dover Coastguard.

The volunteer crew aboard the ALB were quickly on scene and two crew members were transferred to assist the couple. A rope attached to a fishing marker had become wrapped around the propeller of the cruiser which was effectively acting like an anchor. Unable to free the obstruction the lifeboat crew were forced to cut the marker free. The casualty was then towed the short distance to the harbour locks.

ALB Launch no 21

An angling boat lost electrical power close inshore in Eastbourne Bay on Thursday afternoon (2 June) which left the three adults and a child aboard drifting helplessly in the strong wind and tide being unable to start their engine or radio for help.

In desperation the anglers dialled 999 on their mobile phone and were connected with Dover Coastguard who requested the launch of Eastbourne RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat (ALB). Fortunately their plight was noticed by the safety boat of the local sailing club which went to their assistance. The safety boat tried to take the vessel under tow but had insufficient power to do more than keep it from running aground until the lifeboat arrived.

When on scene a towline was passed to the casualty and the disabled angling boat taken to the safety of Sovereign Harbour.

A spokesman later added that this group were particularly fortunate as they had suffered a similar problem just a few weeks ago and had put to sea thinking their previous mechanical problem had been rectified.

ILB Launch no 29

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched in response to a desperate request to Dover Coastguard from a dog owner who thought his aged pet had got into difficulties whilst swimming in Pevensey Bay.

Concerned that the distraught owner of the dog might enter the water in an attempt to rescue his pet Dover Coastguard requested the launch of Eastbourne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat. Following a rapid assembly and launch by the volunteer crew the ILB was stood down just minutes into the service when the dog, as is not unusual in these cases, found its own way ashore

ALB Launch no 20

The All Weather lifeboat was launched this morning to recover a 12 metre steel motor cruiser with 2 people on board which had suffered mechanical failure whilst approaching Beachy Head.

The couple had left Sovereign Harbour earlier with a view to taking the opportunity of a weather window to travel to Brighton. Unfortunately they got within a mile of Beachy Head when their vessel developed an engine fault. Unable to rectify the problem they deployed their anchor and called Dover Coastguard for assistance. Dover requested the launch of Eastbourne ALB and a few minutes later the volunteer crew had assembled and were leaving harbour.

When on scene deputy second coxswain Ian Stringer was put aboard the casualty vessel to rig a towline and retrieve the anchor. The vessel was then taken under tow to the locks at Sovereign Harbour.

To watch the video of this rescue please click on the link below

video_detail?articleid=689296&category=321497®ion=&listing=Rescues

casualty entering locks under tow from ALB with assistance from the boarding boat.

ALB Launch no 19

The All Weather lifeboat was launched in the early hours of Saturday morning to rescue a young man from his disabled 14ft angling boat in the treacherous waters off Beachy Head.

The young man had set out earlier to go fishing; he later collected a friend from the beach and returned him to his home town at Newhaven. On his return journey to Eastbourne the engine of his small craft failed leaving him drifting helpless in the strong tide. He contacted Dover Coastguard by VHF radio for assistance giving them 700 metres off Beachy Head lighthouse as his position; they in turn requested the launch of the ALB which left its moorings shortly before 1am.

Guided to the location by their direction finding equipment, confirmed by the firing of a distress flare from the angling boat, the volunteer crew of the ALB located the casualty off Belle Tout lighthouse. The young man was transferred to the safety of the ALB and deputy second coxswain Paul Rogers put aboard to rig a towline.

Due to the small size of the angling boat the tow across Beachy Head Ledge and back to Sovereign Harbour had to be taken very slowly for fear of capsizing the vessel the ALB eventually arriving back at 3.10am.

Casualty safe in lock at Sovereign Harbour

ILB Launch no 28

“an incident”

ALB Launch no 18

ILB Launch no 27

A lone yachtsman had a lucky escape on Tuesday afternoon when he became separated from his vessel whilst trying to free a rope which had become wrapped around the propeller of his boat.

The drama began when the yachtsman in his 32ft boat, just 800 metres offshore from Eastbourne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat station at Fishermans Green, realised that a rope had become wrapped around the boat’s propeller whilst motor-sailing from Sovereign Harbour. With his engine now inoperative he deployed his anchor to avoid being carried by the tide and brisk winds into further danger. In an attempt to free the rope he entered the water with the intention of freeing the propeller. Having failed in this endeavour he launched his inflatable dinghy in a second attempt to free himself. This time his troubles were compounded because his dinghy, with him aboard without engine or oars, was swept away. Luckily for him, volunteer RNLI helmsman Andy Chatton was working in his fresh fish shop close by and had spotted the yachtsman’s predicament. Andy informed Dover Coastguard and then prepared to launch the inshore lifeboat.

The volunteer crew were paged soon after and within seven minutes were on scene alongside the casualty. The yachtsman was transferred to the safety of the ILB and his dinghy secured. Unable to free the propeller, senior helmsman Dave Needham requested the assistance of Eastbourne RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat. A crewmember was put aboard the yacht and a towline was rigged and passed to the ALB. The yacht was then returned to the safety of Sovereign Harbour where the very cold, wet and grateful skipper made his way to the hot showers.

                      photo taken from ALB                                                 photo taken from seafront

ILB Launch no 26

With their exercise finally completed, the ILB crew were returning to station when they were again contacted by Dover Coastguard this time with a request to investigate a report from a member of public that three swimmers were in difficulties off the beach opposite the Grand Hotel. The lifeboat crew soon made contact and discovered that the swimmers were well equipped members of a local open water swimming group enjoying their daily swim. The incident was logged as a false alarm with good intent.

ILB Launch no 25

Dover Coastguard requested RNLI Eastbourne’s inshore lifeboat crew to divert from their training exercise in Pevensey Bay on Sunday morning to investigate a report from a passing yachtsman that a small angling boat was drifting 400 metres south of the pier with no one aboard.

The volunteer ILB crew checked the immediate area for casualties whilst a shore based mobile coastguard unit made enquiries ashore. It was soon established that the craft had either been carried from its berth on the beach by the high tide or had been maliciously cast adrift. The ILB crew took the vessel under tow and returned it to the beach from whence it came.

ALB Launch No 17

Three anglers who had anchored their 6.5 metre boat a mile offshore in Pevensey Bay found themselves helpless when it came to returning home, with no electrical power they were unable to start their engine or call for assistance on the boat’s radio.

Fortunately the group were still within range of a mobile phone signal and were able to contact HM Coastguard to call for help. Dover Coastguard requested the launch of Eastbourne RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat to assist. The ALB was soon on scene and transferred volunteer crewman Dave Needham to the casualty vessel to retrieve the anchor and rig a towline. The vessel was then recovered to the locks at Sovereign Harbour.

   crewman Dave Needham retrieving the anchor                          Casualty entering Soveriegn Harbour

ILB Launch no 24

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched following a report from a concerned member of the public that two people appeared to be trapped by the tide at Whitbread Hollow.

When on scene the volunteer crew were unable to find anyone in distress. A thorough search of the surrounding shoreline revealed nothing untoward. With the tide falling, the joint decision from the combined rescue services was to stand the lifeboat down, the incident being logged as a false alarm with good intent.

ILB Launch no 23

ALB Launch No 16

Both Eastbourne RNLI’s lifeboats were launched this afternoon (Sat.) in response to a ‘pan pan’ distress call from a 22ft sports/angling boat with a fouled anchor on Beachy Head Ledge which had threatened to swamp the boat in the strong tides.

Three people aboard the newly acquired boat had decided to anchor close inshore near Beachy Head to do some fishing. Unfortunately they chose a spot close to Beachy Head Ledge, a submerged reef which extends some two miles out to sea, and their anchor became trapped fast amongst the rocks. As the tide turned they found they could not retrieve the anchor and the strong tides were forcing the bow of their boat down into the water.

First on scene was the inshore lifeboat, the volunteer crew were unable to free the anchor but with the all-weather boat close behind it was decided the best option was to wait until the ALB arrived to use its superior power rather than cut the anchor chain. A shackle was attached to the anchor chain and a line taken to the ALB which eventually managed to pull the anchor from off the seabed.

ILB Launch no 22

ALB Launch No 15

Both Eastbourne RNLI boats were launched within three minutes of each other on Wednesday afternoon to two separate incidents. The inshore lifeboat to an inflatable dingy which had drifted too far out to sea and the all-weather boat to a yacht in difficulties two miles offshore.

The busy period started when Dover Coastguard received reports from concerned holidaymakers that a young man in an inflatable dinghy was seen over a mile offshore apparently drifting uncontrolled in the fresh Easterly breeze. The ILB was launched to investigate. A patrolling Royal Navy vessel was in the area and offered to divert to give assistance but was not required. When on scene the volunteer ILB crew found that the youth had managed to negotiate his way back to the beach unharmed. Crew member Alan Simister was put ashore to offer safety advice about putting to sea without adequate equipment after which the ILB was released from service and returned to station.

Meanwhile the ALB was tasked to recover a 38ft yacht with two people on board which had suffered mechanical problems two miles offshore. Unable to start their engine the all girl crew had called Dover Coastguard for assistance. Deputy coxswain/mechanic Dan Guy was put aboard the casualty vessel to rig a drogue and towline. The yacht was then returned to Sovereign Harbour.

  Deputy coxswain/mechanic Dan Guy transfering to casualty

                                                                    Casualty entering Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch No 14

The All-Weather lifeboat was launched this morning to recover a 12 metre yacht with seven people on board which had suffered a mechanical failure on its approach to Sovereign Harbour. With the wind gusting to 38 knots, and in rough sea conditions, the yacht’s crew were unable to negotiate the harbour entrance and called Dover Coastguard for assistance.

The yacht was returning to Eastbourne from a weekend in France when the crew found they were unable to start their engine. With the wind gusting to gale force it would have been extremely hazardous to attempt to negotiate the entrance channel under sail alone so help was requested.

When on scene two miles offshore, the volunteer crew of the ALB passed a ‘casualty drogue’

(a device to slow the vessel in a following sea) to the stricken yacht. The yacht’s crew deployed the drogue whilst the lifeboat crew rigged a towline. The vessel was then carefully returned to harbour where it was delivered to the safely of the marina locks.

ILB Launch no 21

A windsurfer enjoying the brisk winds in Eastbourne Bay got into difficulties on Wednesday evening when the mast of his craft broke 800 metres offshore leaving him helpless in the water and unable to combat the tide.

Fortunately his plight was spotted by holidaymakers on the beach who had the presence of mind to dial 999 and inform HM Coastguard.

Eastbourne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat crew were scrambled and were on scene in a matter of minutes. The windsurfer and his equipment was taken aboard the ILB by the volunteer crew and returned to the beach.

ALB Launch Number 13

The mobile Coastguard crew meanwhile had interviewed people on the beach and were unable to find an owner for the rib. With daylight failing it was considered to be a hazard to navigation so the ALB was retasked to collect the rib and return with it to Sovereign Harbour.

ALB Launch Number 12

The All Weather Lifeboat was launched to assist a yacht with engine failure. The sailing boat with a crew of four reported that they were unable to start their engine for the approach to Sovereign Harbour.

The 55ft yacht had been motor sailing for a number of hours in light winds on its return to Eastbourne and the engine had become overheated forcing the crew to shut it down. They managed to slowly sail to the harbour entrance but when it came to use their engine for the final approach it failed to start. An anchor was deployed whilst Dover Coastguard was contacted. HM Coastguard requested the launch of Eastbourne RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat ALB) to assist.

During the short trip to the stricken yacht coxswain Mark Sawyer noticed a partially submerged rib (rigid inflatable boat) with apparently no people in attendance close inshore half a mile distant. Mark informed Dover Coastguard who sent a mobile shore crew to investigate. Having reassured the crew of the yacht and established that they were in no immediate danger, the ALB went to check the status of the rib. Satisfied that it was at anchor and apparently abandoned, the ALB returned to the yacht and took it under tow to Harbour.

ILB Launch no 20

The Eastbourne ILB was requested to an immediate launch by Dover Coastguard to a report of two young persons in a dinghy with difficulties close to Sovereign Harbour entrance. As the ILB reached the scene of the report it was discovered the original report was incorrect. The incident was not at the entrance to Sovereign but was in fact at Hastings close to the sea wall at the eastern end of the seafront. The ILB was stood down and returned to station.

ILB Launch no 19

The Inshore Lifeboat with a crew of four was requested to launch to a report of a person who had jumped from the cliff top at Beachy Head. Once on scene the crew searched and located the person was on the upper cliff face and not accessible from the beach. The ILB crew stood by until the Coastguard cliff rescue team had winched the body to the top of the cliffs. The lifeboat was stood down, thanked for their assistance and returned to station.

ILB Launch no 18

The Inshore lifeboat was launched this morning at the request of Dover Coastguard to recover a body from the sea near Beachy Head.

The volunteer crew, including the station doctor, returned the female casualty to the ILB station where it was passed to the waiting Coroner.

ALB Launch Number 11

The All Weather lifeboat (ALB) launched to recover a yacht with three people on board which had a fouled propeller and was unable to enter harbour under its own power.

The family had set sail earlier in the day from Sovereign Harbour bound for Dieppe in their 26ft yacht. Having safely motor sailed across the busy SW shipping lane they were relaxing in the separation zone when an unseen object became wrapped around their propeller. Not wishing to attempt entry into a foreign port with a mechanical problem they decided to turn around and sail back to Eastbourne. When they reached Eastbourne Bay, many hours after setting out, they contacted Dover Coastguard for assistance.

Dover Coastguard requested the launch of Eastbourne’s ALB which was quickly alongside the stranded family. The volunteer lifeboat crew rigged a tow and the yacht was taken to the safety of the harbour locks from whence it was returned to its berth.

ILB Launch no 17

Eastbourne RNLI lifeboats were diverted from routine crew training on Sunday morning to assist a 27ft angling boat with 3 people on boat which had suffered a mechanical failure on the approach to Sovereign Harbour.

Both Eastbourne lifeboats were on a routine training exercise in Eastbourne Bay when they were contacted by the crew of an angling boat who requested assistance after their vessel suffered a mechanical failure.

The volunteer crew of the inshore lifeboat (ILB) took the vessel in tow and delivered it to the safety of the harbour locks.

ILB Launch no 16

The Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) was launched in response to a 999 call to Dover Coastguard from a young man in a 16ft open angling boat.

The young man had set out earlier from the beach near Langney Point to cross Pevensey Bay to visit a friend in Cooden. The outboard engine on his boat had suffered a mechanical failure and he was trying to row the heavy boat against the tide. After several hours, tired and exhausted, he made the phone call to the emergency services which initiated the scrambling of the volunteer lifeboat crew from their beds.

The ILB took the vessel under tow and returned it and the young man to the beach at Langney.

ALB Launch Number 10

The All Weather lifeboat (ALB) was launched to assist a yacht which had suffered mechanical problems on its approach to Sovereign Harbour. The 43ft yacht with two people on board had lost drive from the engine so the skipper contacted Dover Coastguard to request assistance to transit the harbour entrance. The yacht was taken under tow and then passed to a waiting harbour workboat which returned it to its berth in the Marina.

ILB Launch no 15

The Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) was launched to search for a missing person who had inexplicably disappeared during a 17 hour long incident on the cliff tops near Beachy Head.

Police officers who had been offering support to the 37 year old male throughout the night became concerned when he disappeared from view and were fearful that he may have carried out his threat to jump from the cliffs. The volunteer crew of the ILB conducted a detailed search of the shoreline and cliff ledges in the area. They were finally stood down when the Police received reports that the individual had been spotted in Eastbourne town centre.

ILB Launch no 14

A young woman who had been walking along the beach with a friend was rescued this afternoon in a multi agency operation when she became trapped by the incoming tide at the foot of cliffs near Beachy Head.

The initial report was from a member of the public who had been approached by a distraught man who had emerged from the sea desperate to obtain help to rescue his partner who had become trapped on the beach by the rising tide. The subsequent 999 call was directed to Dover Coastguard who requested the immediate launch of Eastbourne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat (ILB). At the same time the Police and Ambulance services were alerted.

Whilst on route to the location described by the first informant, the volunteer crew of the ILB observed two people leaving the beach at Cow Gap. This information was passed to the Coastguard Officer ashore. The officer interviewed the couple and was able to confirm that they were not involved in the initial incident and the search was continued.

On rounding the headland near Beachy Head lighthouse, the ILB crew located a distressed young woman who had scrambled up the rocks to keep above the tide line. A member of the ILB crew was put ashore to assist the woman from the rocks and into the lifeboat. The Police helicopter was on scene by this time but was stood down with the woman safely aboard the lifeboat. The casualty was taken to the beach at Hollywell where she was passed to waiting Police Officers. Meanwhile her partner who had waded through the water to raise the alarm was taken into the care of a waiting ambulance crew.

Once again the public are reminded that the stretch of beach between Birling Gap and Cow Gap covers at high tide and it is vital that walkers are aware of the large fall and rise of tides in this area.

ILB Launch no 13 (Standby)

Dover Coastguard requested the ILB to launch to a person in the sea close to Eastbourne Pier. Just seconds before launching the ILB was stood down as it was reported the person had been pulled from the water safely by others on the beach.

ALB Launch Number 9

ILB Launch Number 12  (Standby)

Both Eastbourne RNLI Lifeboats were paged this afternoon (Weds) when Dover Coastguard received a Mayday distress call from a 22ft yacht in difficulties close to Eastbourne pier.

The yacht, with four persons on board, was sailing from Eastbourne bound for Brighton when the mainsail split. Unable to control the vessel or start their outboard engine they were in danger of being swept under the pier. Fortunately a local fishing vessel was close by which had also heard their distress signal. The crew of the fishing boat were able to pass a towline and pull the casualty clear of danger.

Aware of the fisherman’s assistance the Inshore Lifeboat was stood down.

The tow was transferred to the All-Weather Lifeboat and the yacht was taken to the safety of Sovereign Harbour.

ILB Launch Number 11

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched this morning in response to a call for help from a 17ft charter angling boat with a professional film crew aboard who were recording scenes around the Sussex Coast.

The angling boat was in danger of running aground after it had suffered a mechanical failure and was unable to maintain steerage. Within five minutes of launching, the lifeboat crew had attached a towline and were under way. The casualty vessel was then returned to its berth at the local angling club.

ALB Launch Number 8

ILB Launch Number 10

A 42 ft yacht with two persons on board had a lucky escape when it was swept onto the beach in a falling tide.

The drama started shortly after the yacht had rounded Beachy Head on passage to Sovereign Harbour when it suffered engine failure. The experienced couple on board decided to attempt the difficult manoeuvre in the prevailing weather conditions of entering the outer harbour under sail and contacted the harbour lock keeper via VHF radio to arrange a liaison with a workboat to take them from there into the locks. Fortunately this communication alerted Mark Sawyer, Coxswain of Eastbourne RNLI Lifeboats to the situation. Mark was able to monitor the yachts progress from his position in the boathouse and became concerned when it was apparent it was far too close inshore, he made contact to advise them to head out to sea but they could not overcome the effects of wind and tide and were swept onto the beach.

Mark ordered an immediate launch of the All Weather lifeboat which was quickly on scene. The strong winds and surf had embedded the keel of the yacht firmly into the shingle and it was stuck fast in the falling tide. By this time the Inshore Lifeboat had also been launched. A towline was passed to the stricken yacht from the ALB and attached by crewmembers from the ILB who had swum ashore. Time was fast running out to salvage the vessel, within minutes the tide would have left it high and dry and there would have been no alternative but to abandon it to the elements until the next high tide which would not have been until 2am on Monday morning. In consultation with the yachts skipper it was decided to make one attempt to refloat the vessel.

In a group effort, reminiscent of times gone by when the whole community got involved in the launch of a lifeboat, and in a week when the RNLI celebrated its 187th birthday, halyards connected to the top of the mast were released and passed to a combination of lifeboat station personnel and willing bystanders on the beach .Eager hands pulled the ropes and eventually the keel broke free of the shingle and the yacht was gently eased into deeper water by the ALB.

To watch this rescue video please click here :-getvideo

ILB Launch Number 9

Dover Coastguard requested the assistance of Eastbourne RNLI’s Inshore Lifeboat to search the foot of Beachy Head cliffs for a casualty following the discovery of a car in suspicious circumstances at the top of the cliffs.

Whilst conducting a shoreline search the volunteer crew heard frantic calls for help from a person midway down the 500 foot cliffs. Police helicopter 37 was alerted, Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 104 was scrambled from its base at Lee on Solent and local Coastguard Cliff Rescue teams were mobilised. The casualty was eventually winched aboard Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 104 and taken to Eastbourne District General Hospital.

ILB Launch Number 8

Eastbourne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was launched on Sunday afternoon following reports to Dover Coastguard that an unidentified object was seen floating off South Cliff Bexhill.

Concerned members of the public had contacted HM Coastguard when an unidentified object was seen floating 200 yards offshore. Guided to the exact location by Coastguard Officers on shore, the volunteer lifeboat crew were quickly on scene. In a month when a WW2 torpedo was discovered off Eastbourne, the lifeboat crew were relieved to discover the object was no more than a large partially submerged log. The object was potentially a serious hazard to navigation, particularly for small craft, so the crew manhandled it aboard the lifeboat and returned with it to station.

ALB Launch Number 7

Eastbourne RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat was requested to launch by Dover Coastguard this morning to assist with the evacuation of two members of a fishing party 15 miles South of Sovereign Harbour.

The initial report from the skipper of a 30ft. charter angling boat was that a member of his party was unwell, and drifting in and out of consciousness. In addition to Eastbourne Lifeboat being despatched to the scene, Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 104 was also scrambled from its base at Lee-on-Solent. Whilst both rescue services were under way to the vessel’s location, a second member of the fishing party sustained a cut to his head. When on scene, volunteer crew member and paramedic Guy Emery was transferred to the fishing vessel to administer triage and first aid. Having assessed the condition of both casualties it was decided to airlift them both to Eastbourne Hospital.

To watch this rescue video please click here :- http://www.rnlivideolibrary.org.uk/getvideo.aspx?vid=CMtuijwZ

ALB Launch Number 5/6

ILB Launch Number 6/7

Both RNLI Eastbourne lifeboats were involved in a dramatic rescue last night when Dover Coastguard requested an immediate launch following a Mayday distress call from a 22 ft sports angling boat which had gone aground on the notorious Beachy Head Ledge reef and was in danger of breaking up.

The new owner of a sports angling boat was making his way from Brighton to Eastbourne on his maiden voyage when the vessel suffered a mechanical failure whilst rounding the head near Beachy Head. Unable to deploy his anchor he was quickly swept onto the Ledge, a submerged reef which extends over two miles out to sea from beneath the cliffs, and became wedged amongst the rocks. The pounding surf was likely to inflict serious damage to the boat and threaten the safety of the lone skipper.

When on scene the volunteer crew of the Inshore Lifeboat took the relieved owner aboard and passed him to the All Weather lifeboat. They then turned their attention to saving his boat. On a rapidly falling tide and with the all-weather lifeboat providing floodlighting, fenders were strategically placed to limit further damage and an anchor was rigged to make sure all was secure until the ebbing tide left the boat high and dry. As nothing further could be done until the next tide, both boats returned to station.

At 10.30pm both boats re-launched to begin the delicate operation to refloat the casualty vessel. Two volunteer crew members transferred to the vessel and rigged a towline back to the all-weather lifeboat. As the tide began to flood, further fenders were deployed to limit damage to the hull. Gradually as the tide increased the casualty was gently eased off the rocks by the all-weather lifeboat and finally reached deep water just after midnight. Initial inspection, much to the relief of the owner, indicated that the hull had not been breached and the boat was towed to the safety of Sovereign Harbour.

The volunteer crew were thanked for their outstanding service and both boats were made ready for service at 2.00am almost 8 hours after the initial call.

ALB Launch Number 4

ILB Launch Number 4/5

Both Eastbourne RNLI Lifeboats were re-tasked from their Sunday morning training exercises to deal with two incidents when a stranded walker and a human body were discovered on the beach at Beachy Head

The volunteer crew of Eastbourne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat were training off Beachy Head when a crew member spotted what was thought to be a casualty on the rocks at the foot of the cliffs. Senior helmsman Dave Needham was put ashore to investigate and to assess the situation. Dave was able to confirm that it was a casualty and the information was relayed to HM Coastguard. Due to the difficulty of transmitting VHF radio signals to Dover from the location, Solent Coastguard co-ordinated the operation instead. Eastbourne’s All Weather lifeboat, with crew member Doctor Stephen Lytton aboard, was re-deployed to the incident to support the ILB. The volunteer crews were adjusted to deal with the situation and Doctor Lytton was put ashore. He was able to declare the casualty as being deceased.

Meanwhile the lifeboat crew observed a walker who was busy taking photographs of the cliff and had not realised that he was rapidly being cut off by the rising tide. The crew checked his only possible escape route and found that he was indeed isolated, so collected him from the beach and deposited him at the cliff steps at Birling Gap.

The first casualty was then recovered and passed to the waiting Police Coroner at the ILB station.

ALB Launch Number 3

ILB Launch Number 3

Whilst on routine Sunday morning training exercises the crew of the All Weather lifeboat spotted four walkers who had become trapped on the beach by the incoming tide between Beachy Head lighthouse and an area to the East known as Falling Sands. One of the walkers had previously stumbled as they had tried to climb the rocks in an effort to escape the rising water so they were advised by ALB Coxswain Mark Sawyer to stay where they were and await rescue. The inshore lifeboat, which was on a training exercise off Sovereign Harbour, was alerted and retasked to assist in the evacuation. The group were transferred to the all-weather lifeboat and taken back to Birling Gap where the inshore lifeboat ferried them to the cliff steps.

An RNLI Sea Safety advisor commented “this group were fortunate that the RNLI Lifeboats were in the area. With another two hours of rising tide these individuals plight could have got a lot more serious. With no escape from the beach between Birling Gap and Cow Gap, walkers are strongly advised to check tide tables and seek expert local knowledge before setting out”.

Photo taken by Mark Chessell

ALB Launch No 2 (Standby)
ILB Launch No 2 (Standby)

A request was made from Dover Coastguard to launch both boats to the report of a person in the water close to Eastbourne Pier. After just a few minutes the launch was cancelled as the person was reported to have been assisted safely ashore. Both boats and crew stood down.

ALB Launch Number 1

ILB Launch Number 1

Both RNLI Eastbourne’s lifeboats were launched to search for a rib which had been reported as being in difficulties off Eastbourne Bay.

The Initial report, received by Dover Coastguard, was from a group of anglers who were returning to the beach from a fishing trip. They said they had passed close by a rib with an undisclosed number of persons on board and that the occupants gave every indication that they were in difficulties. Unable to assist themselves, the anglers had contacted the emergency services.

Initially the Inshore Lifeboat was launched, arriving on scene at 9.50pm. Unable to locate the rib in the darkness they fired a white flare to illuminate the area. With no sighting made the volunteer crew called for assistance from the All Weather lifeboat with its powerful searchlights and thermal imaging equipment. The ALB joined the search, coordinated by Dover Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, at 10.16pm. After a comprehensive search in freezing conditions by both Lifeboats, assisted by Coastguard Officers on shore, and being satisfied that the rib was no longer in the area, the search was called off at 11.50pm and the volunteer crews returned to their respective stations.