Selsey reserve inshore lifeboat “Jenny Topham” launched at 1825 to investigate a 999 call from a member of the public reporting two young boys had been swept into the sea from the boat-launching ramp at West Sands. Selsey all weather lifeboat “Voluntary Worker” also launched at 1830 to support the ILB, as conditions were close to the inshore lifeboats maximum operating limits also it would soon be dark.
The ILB was on scene at 1833 and the crew started searching the area close to the launching ramp. At this time with little daylight left the lifeboat and crew were in shallow water with large breaking waves. The ALB arrived on scene at 1838 but due to the lack of depth of water and sea conditions was unable to close the shore closer than approximately 200 metres off.
Thankfully at 1848 both boats were released to return to station as the two young boys had been found safe and well by the local Coastguard team who were searching the shoreline. It transpired that the first informant had seen the boys playing on the ramp then looked away and when he looked again they were nowhere to be seen. Due to the rough sea conditions he had assumed the worst and had correctly called 999 for assistance, in fact the two boys had just gone to play elsewhere. A false alarm with good intent.
CREW ILB: C.Pullenger (Helmsman), P.Delahunty, G.Pearce, A.Lee.
CREW ALB: M.Rudwick (Coxswain), W.Pledger (2nd Coxswain), P.Pitham (Mechanic), M.Gilligan, J.Albery, C.Sergeant, P.King, J.Reeves.
WIND: Southwest 5-6. SEA: Moderate-Rough. WEATHER: Cloudy