Newhaven RNLI rescue two people ‘clinging onto pier’

At 12.41pm on Thursday, July 2, volunteer crews assisted the two casualties and their capsized dinghy at the entrance to Newhaven Harbour.

While the lifeboat was being launched, a Rampion Offshore Wind Farm vessel, already in the vicinity, was able to push on to the East Pier and recover them from the water where they had been clinging onto the pier.

A spokesman for Newhaven RNLI said: “The lifeboat arrived quickly on the scene and the crew focused their efforts on recovering the capsized dinghy.

“The Y-boat was launched from the David and Elizabeth Acland with two crew who are experienced in dinghy sailing. They managed to manoeuvre the semi-submerged upturned dinghy away from the Rampion vessel and right it.

“HM Coastguard carried out a casualty care assessment of the two casualties once on land.

“The lifeboat towed their dinghy back to the station.”

Coxswain Lewis Arnold added: “We are very grateful to Rampion for their swift action, ensuring the safety of the sailors. Keeping an eye out for others can save a life.

“If you spot anyone in difficulty in the sea, please call 999 immediately and ask for the coastguard.’

“We’d rather our crew have the opportunity to practise their hand at a turned turtle than not to hear about someone in trouble until it’s too late.”

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