Busy weekend for Selsey Coastguard team includes medical emergency and call-out to unmanned sail

Its first job came as early as 1.35am on Saturday (July 4) after receiving reports of a casualty needing medical assistance at Chichester Marina.

The team was sent out to assist South East Coast Ambulance Service, to help the casualty off their vessel.

On Sunday, just before 12.45pm, the team was paged to Bracklesham Bay to ‘reports of a kite or sail’ in the water with ‘no sign of anyone with it’. See more pictures here

A sail was found to be ‘submerged and irretrievable’ due to the weather conditions and breaking waves.

A shoreline search was carried out by the Coastguard rescue search team and Hayling and Selsey Lifeboat were also tasked to carry out searches.

A spokesperson said: “Selsey Lifeboat attempted to retrieve the sail but due to conditions and where it was situated was unsuccessful.”

There initially had been no reports of any missing person and all searches were completed, with all assets stood down, but the owner was later ‘located safe and well’.

On Sunday evening, shortly after 8pm, the team was sent out to help a kayaker in possible difficulties off Aldwick.

The spokesperson said: “Thankfully the kayaker was reported safe and well and we were stood down as we were leaving the station.

“The coast and the sea can catch you out whether you’re local or not. Our message remains: call 999 Coastguard if you’re in trouble.

“Please help us and our families stay safe. Be aware of the risks, keep your distance.

“In an emergency out at sea, on the beach or along the coast dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

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