Selsey inshore lifeboat “Betty and Thomas Moore” launched at 18:50 to assist nine persons reported to be cut off by the incoming tide on “Kirk Arrow” a shingle bank approximately 100 metres off the end of Hillfield Road.
The lifeboat arrived on scene at 19:01 after having to walk the boat at some points on their way, this was due to the exceptionally low Spring equinox tides. On arriving it was discovered that all but one person had managed to walk ashore and the last casualty was only a few metres from the safety of the beach. Assisted by a crew member and the local coastguard team the last casualty was escorted ashore.
At 19:10 the ILB was released to return to station , arriving back at 19:25, rehoused straight away and was made ready for service once more at 20:00.
CREW: C.Pullenger (Helmsman), J.Albery, C.Sergeant.
WIND: Flat calm. SEA: Smooth. WEATHER: Clear, good visibility.
Selsey RNLI coxswain Martin Rudwick commented: ‘It just goes to show that even on the loveliest of evenings – flat calm, beautiful sunset – you can still get caught out if you do not take sufficient account of the particular local circumstances, which on this occasion included a fast flooding tide and darkness falling.’