The RNLI is entirely independent of the government. All the rescue stories featured here are only possible thanks to kind donations from supporters like you. Donate today and be a lifesaver.
25 years on Newhaven RNLI marks anniversary of historic East Sussex flood rescue
25 years on Newhaven RNLI marks anniversary of historic East Sussex flood rescue
Lifeboats News Release
Sunday 12 October, marks 25 years since the East Sussex floods of 2000. Following heavy rainfall that caused the River Ouse to burst its banks and the River Uck to flood. The worst floods in living memory for the community. Inundated, the Fire Service requested assistance of RNLI crews.
RNLI assisted emergency services evacuating people from their homes and businesses
RNLI volunteers from across the region, including the lifeboat stations of Shoreham, Brighton, Eastbourne, and Hastings, joined emergency services in a coordinated rescue effort in Lewes, Uckfield and surrounding areas.
Roger Cohen MBE, Lifeboat Operations Manager for Newhaven, who was volunteer crew with Brighton RNLI at the time, recalls: ‘Inflatable lifeboats were transported to the area from nearby stations, as well as from RNLI HQ in Poole.’
Crew assisted emergency services in evacuating people from their homes and businesses, taking them to temporary shelters. They helped residents retrieve personal property, including search and rescue of various animals: dogs, cats, and other pets, including a parrot.
‘It was cold and difficult work. Volunteers had to contend with dangerous conditions like smashed drain covers and other debris whilst navigating the muddy water.’
Crew encountered dangerous conditions at Cliffe bridge. Debris and strong current combined to suck the lifeboat under the bridge.
‘Thankfully the crew managed to climb the railings to safety.’
RNLI crews conducted searches for missing persons and helped in searches for livestock that had been swept away by the surging water.
The floods also affected the Charity’s own operations, with the RNLI regional fundraising office in Uckfield needing evacuation after the waters rose.
This experience was a turning point, prompting the RNLI to create and train dedicated flood rescue teams. These teams now stand ready to respond to inland flooding emergencies across the country.
‘On this 25-year anniversary we honour the resilience of the East Sussex community and the bravery of all volunteers and rescue worker who put their lives on hold to save others.’
Ends
Notes for the Editor
Newhaven Lifeboat Station was first established in 1803. Newhaven Lifeboat Station has been RNLI operated since 1854. Newhaven Volunteer Crew have operated their current all-weather lifeboat (ALB), the Severn class ‘David and Elizabeth Acland’ for 26 years. Newhaven RNLI also operates a D class inshore lifeboat (ILB) that began its service in August 2024.
RNLI crews from around the region joined coordinated rescue effort
The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.
