Newhaven RNLI tasked to wingfoiler in distress

Newhaven RNLI launched the charity’s D Class inshore lifeboat D-890 ‘Bill Hall’ at speed – in response to a 999 call from a member of the public, who had seen the wingfoiler waving for assistance off the Salts Recreation Ground in Seaford – reaching the casualty within just 10 minutes of launching.

The crew of four quickly recovered the wingfoiler, who was wearing a wetsuit and buoyancy aid, onto the lifeboat and determined he was well, so the decision was made to land him at Seaford Beach, where he swam in and was met by the Newhaven Coastguard Team.

Tobias Morrish, the 33-year-old who was rescued, said: ‘I’m an experienced kitesurfer, but I’ve only been wingfoiling for a year or so. I went too far out and then the middle strut of my wing failed. I started trying to swim back but it was taking ages, so I waved for help on the shore and the lifeboat came to rescue me.

‘I’ve been doing water sports all my life, but even people like me can get into trouble. It’s a reminder of why we need the RNLI, they’re fantastic and almost as important as the NHS or the police in my eyes – what would I have done without them?

‘I’m a part owner of Skipper Water Sports on Seaford Beach and we’re going to hold a fundraising day for Newhaven RNLI this summer as a thank you for rescuing me and so many others.’

Katherine Nash, volunteer lifeboat crew member and trainee D Class helm, who took charge of the shout while being overseen by D Class helm Andy Bull, said: ‘The sea was slight, but the offshore winds were strong and pulling Tobias further away from the shore. We were glad to find him tired but otherwise well and to bring him back to safety.’

Guy Addington, Regional Water Safety Lead for the RNLI, said: ‘This rescue shows even highly experienced and well‑prepared water users can sometimes get into difficulty when conditions change unexpectedly. The individual involved was properly equipped and had plenty of experience, but the sea can be unpredictable and can catch anybody out.

‘The RNLI encourages everyone taking part in water sports such as wingfoiling to wear an appropriate buoyancy aid, carry a reliable means of calling for help, and let someone on shore know their plans before heading out. Choosing bright, high‑visibility clothing or equipment can also make a real difference if assistance is needed.’

Back at the station, the volunteer crew hosed down the lifeboat and got it ready for its next emergency.

ENDS

Notes to editors

Pic credit: Newhaven RNLI. Video of the incident is available.

Wingfoiling is a wind-powered watersport which is different to kitesurfing.

The rider stands on a board and uses a hand-held inflatable wing to harness the wind to provide lift.

Newhaven RNLI is a busy lifeboat station where crew members are on call 24/7, 365 days a year. Their work is supported by local fundraising events and visits to the station and gift shop.

RNLI media contacts

For further information, please contact:

The Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officers for Newhaven RNLI – Sam Haddad on 07958 665056 or [email protected] or Stella Sims on 07746 706147 or [email protected]