The UK Coastguards requested the launch of the Selsey RNLI inshore Lifeboat (ILB) after receiving reports of a small inflatable in difficulties off Butlins Bognor Regis complex. The ILB launched at 1.33 p.m. on Thursday 14th July but, as they launched, the Coastguard cancelled the launch as the inflatable had been aided ashore by the RNLI lifeguards. The ILB was recovered straight away.
At 1.43 p.m. the pager sounded again, this time requesting both the Lifeboats. This time the UK Coastguards had received calls saying that a spear fisherman had dived under the surface but had not resurfaced. The ILB was launched first followed by the all-weather Lifeboat (ALB) at 1.54 p.m. once again at 1.59 p.m. the Coastguards stood the Lifeboats down with the casualty safely ashore. The ILB returned at 2.13 p.m. and was recovered straight away and the ALB returned at 2.42 p.m. and was recovered.
ILB CREW: James Albrey (Helmsman), Craig Sergeant, and Dan Langford.
ALB CREW: Colin Pullenger (Coxswain), Phil Pitham (Mechanic), Andy Lee. Harry Emmence, Neil Hopcraft and Tim Scott.