Man overboard - lifeboats launched to save yachtsman

Shoreham’s all weather lifeboat, Newhaven’s Severn Class lifeboat, and the HM Coastguard helicopter were all called out just after 1pm on Saturday.

A statement from the RNLI said: “Whilst en-route all three rescue units were given individual search instructions from Dover Coastguard. Search patterns and timings were formulated by the crew.

“As Newhaven lifeboat got close to the drift start position from which the search was going to commence, Shoreham lifeboat announced via vhf, that they had spotted the casualty in the water to the south of their position.

“Shoreham lifeboat requested HM Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 106, who was close by, to head to the position and recover the casualty from the water. Shortly afterwards the person in the water was recovered by the helicopter and flown straight to The Sussex County Hospital at Brighton via the landing site and then land ambulance.”

Newhaven and Shoreham lifeboats were stood down at 1.47pm.

Shoreham deputy coxswain Peter Everard said: “The man was wearing a lifejacket which no doubt helped save his life. He was very lucky that we found him in time.

“It was a good team effort all round and a good result.”

Newhaven lifeboat Coxswain Paul Legendre explained: “The lifejacket that the casualty was wearing made the difference and has saved a life. Also having a lifejacket means that lifeboat crews can spot the casualty much easier.

“We are delighted with such a positive outcome.”

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