Newhaven RNLI rescues visitors on walk near Sussex beauty spot
On Wednesday 28 May at 9.27pm, Newhaven RNLI were paged by HM Coastguard, after a vessel at sea reported lights seen ashore which they identified as people cut off by the tide in the vicinity of the Seven Sisters cliffs.
Launching the charity’s D Class inshore lifeboat D-890 Bill Hall within 15 minutes of the alert, the volunteer crew made best speed towards Seven Sisters to locate and recover the casualties.
As the lifeboat approached the area, the crew observed lights on the shoreline – believed to be the casualties – and at sea – believed to be the vessel who had contacted HM Coastguard. Liaising with the vessel and confirming the lights on the beach were the ones they had reported as a concern, the crew made towards the casualties on shore, carefully navigating the chalk reef.
Upon arrival, two people were discovered, and reported no injuries or medical concerns. One crew member was deployed ashore while the helm and remaining crew members held the ILB approximately two metres off the small beach at the base of the cliff.
With the risk of rockfall and less than 45 minutes before the tide would rise to engulf the beach, the crew engaged in evacuating the casualties promptly. The casualties were fitted with survivor lifejackets and assisted aboard the lifeboat before returning to Newhaven Lifeboat Station. The two people were students visiting the coast from London, for a leisurely walk by the coast. On arrival at the lifeboat station, they were assisted with onward travel arrangements using public transport.
Newhaven RNLI’s Water Safety Officer, Clare Rozario, is working with other agencies to improve water safety advice in the area, particularly for visitors and tourists, who may not know the area so well.
Clare said, ‘Some of our local beaches have limited entry and exit points, which makes the risk of tidal cut‑off much higher. That’s why the RNLI is in discussion with the National Trust at Birling Gap on a joint awareness campaign, including clear signage and displayed tide times, to help locals and visitors stay safe and enjoy their day at the coast.’
‘A rising tide can move faster than you think, cutting off routes in minutes, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Please check tide times before you head out, explore with others and stay together, and always take a fully charged mobile phone. If you get into difficulty, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’
Notes to editors: RNLI Water Safety Officer, Clare Rozario, is available for interview.
Photo credit: Newhaven RNLI
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