ILB D533 ‘PETER CORNISH’ launched at 1631 hrs to assist two persons reported to be in difficulties in the water just offshore from the end of Warner Road, Selsey.
The ‘PETER CORNISH’ arrived on scene at 1636 hrs and found a man and a woman in a serious condition - out of their depth, clinging to a breakwater and being submerged by every passing wave. There was too much movement for the ‘PETER CORNISH’ to come alongside the casualties in case of injury to them from the ‘PETER CORNISH’. Crewman Colin Pullenger entered the water to support the woman who was near to losing consciousness. Despite her condition she refused to let go of the structure and, in addition, there were language difficulties as both the casualties were Polish. The crewman eventually managed to prise the woman free and swim clear of the breakwater with her. Immediately, Helmsman Robert Archibald manoeuvred the ‘PETER CORNISH’ so that Colin Pullenger could hold on to the bow cleat and support the woman with his other hand. The ‘PETER CORNISH’ was then taken astern into safe water before both persons were brought aboard. At the same time as the first crewman entered the water a second crewman, Peter Delahunty, went into the water to support the man. Once he could see the woman was safe aboard the ‘PETER CORNISH’ he swam with the man clear of the breakwater and the same manoeuvre was carried out by the Helmsman again and the man was recovered aboard the ‘PETER CORNISH’. A request for medical assistance was passed to Solent Coastguard immediately. The ‘PETER CORNISH’ arranged to meet with an ambulance at the end of Hillfield Road approximately 200 yards to the east of the casualties’ position. The casualties were landed and first aid treatment was given to them until paramedics arrived. After stabilising the casualties they were both taken by ambulance to St Richards Hospital.
It transpires that the woman had slipped into the water from the sea defences, her husband had jumped in after her to assist, and conditions were such that they couldn’t get out of the water. They had apparently been in the sea for approximately one hour.
The ‘PETER CORNISH’ was released to return to station at 1714 hrs, arriving back at 1719 hrs, and was recovered and made ready for service at 1745 hrs.
CREW: Robert Archibald (Helmsman), Colin Pullenger, Peter Delahunty.
WIND: North East F4. WEATHER: Cloudy, light rain.