Selsey all weather lifeboat Voluntary Worker launched at 2129 to assist Littlehampton’s two inshore Lifeboats in a search for a possible missing sail or paddle boarder.
Solent Coastguard had received a report at approximately 1900 from members of the public saying they thought they could see a sailboarder in difficulties offshore from Gloucester Road Bognor. Both Littlehampton inshore Lifeboats were on exercise at this time and were tasked immediately to the area. On arrival and in good search conditions nothing was found.
The search was due to be terminated shortly after darkness had fallen but a further report from two anglers on Bognor Pier stating they thought they had seen an empty surfboard drift past Bognor pier earlier prompted the launch of Selsey ALB and the Coastguard helicopter Rescue 104.
Selsey ALB searched from the station east to Bognor Rocks approximately half a mile offshore whilst Littlehampton’s two ILB’s searched closer in between Bognor Pier and Pagham Harbour, with Rescue 104 over flying the whole area. At 2237 the search was terminated with nothing found. Voluntary Worker returned to station at search speed with all searchlights manned.
The lifeboat arrived back at station at 2309 rehoused straight away and was ready for service once more at 2330.
Crew: M.Rudwick (Coxswain), W.Pledger (2nd Coxswain), P.Pitham (Mechanic), D.Lamdin, M.Gilligan, A. Lee, M.Pledger.
WIND: Southwest 2. SEA: Smooth. WEATHER: Clear night, good visibility.