Fire false alarm for Newhaven lifeboat crew

The relief Severn Class lifeboat and her volunteer crew were launched at 1.25pm to a vessel who had put out a Mayday distress call.

The 10 metre twin engine motor cruiser with two people on board had reported smoke from the engine room and were concerned that there was a possible fire on board.

The lifeboat rendezvoused with the casualty vessel half a mile south of the Cuckmere and placed a crew member on board to assess the situation.

It was quickly established that there was not a fire on board.

The motor cruiser started making way towards Eastbourne, which was its home port, on its remaining engine.

Newhaven lifeboat escorted the casualty vessel to the east of Beachy Head where Eastbourne’s all weather lifeboat took over.

Both lifeboats maintained a level of readiness to tow or take action should it have been necessary.

Once handed over to Eastbourne lifeboat, Newhaven was stood down and returned to station at 3.45pm and was again ready for service shortly afterwards.

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1) Make our website your homepage

2) Like our Facebook page

3) Follow us on Twitter

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

Always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.