Selsey all weather lifeboat launched at 21:30 to investigate reports of red flares sighted close inshore in the area between Pagham Harbour and Bognor Pier.
The lifeboat was on scene at 21:45 and carried out a thorough search of the area. Littlehampton Coastguards carried out a beach search in the same vicinity. At 22:50 with nothing untoward being found the lifeboat and Coastguard unit were stood down to return to station.
Voluntary Worker arrived back at station at 23:30 but due to tidal conditions was unable to rehouse until 02:30 the following morning and was made ready for service once more at 03:00.
CREW: M.Rudwick (Coxswain), W.Pledger (2nd Coxswain), P.Pitham (Mechanic), D.Lamdin, G.Mellett, J.Albery, C.Sergeant, G.Pearce.
WIND: East-northeast 5. SEA: Slight. WEATHER: Cloudy-good visibility.