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Flashing light leads to night-time Solent search

Lifeboats News Release

A flashing light, assumed to be attached to a floating horseshoe-shaped buoy from a boat, resulted in a land and sea search involving Cowes RNLI lifeboat and on-shore coastguards last (Tuesday) night.

Responding to reports that a light was spotted flashing near the main breakwater at the mouth of the River Medina, the lifeboat launched at 9.53 pm to begin an extensive search of the area.

Meanwhile coastguards from Bembridge combed the East Cowes shore, in which a bag containing personal items was found.

Although the lifeboat, which had to contend with lively seas and strong winds, managed to recover the flashing light-buoy, nothing else was found.

Solent coastguards finally agreed the search should be called off and the lifeboat returned to station at 10.52 pm.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.

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