September 13 2013.


Newhaven's Severn Class lifeboat 'RNLB David and Elizabeth Acland' was launched at 12.55pm on Tuesday the 10th of September to assist HM Coastguard in the search for a possible casualty at the base of the cliffs between Splash Point, Seaford and Cuckmere Haven.

The volunteer crew of the lifeboat were tasked by Solent Coastguard to assist their land-based team in the search for a possible body recovery from the shoreline, after walkers had found clothing by the edge of the cliff and had become concerned.

The lifeboat was at the scene quickly and began searching the isolated beaches and the waterline. Due to the shallow water the lifeboat launched its daughter 'Y' boat, which is a small inflatable boat. The HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Leigh on Solent call sign 'Rescue 104' joined both boats looking for the casualty.

Rescue 104, after being on scene for only a short time, identified a possible casualty close to Haven Brow, close to Cuckmere. The Y boat made ashore and began the task of recovering the casualty back to the lifeboat. Whilst on route back to the lifeboat station Rescue 104 then identified another casualty at the base of the cliffs between Cuckmere and Beachy Head.

Both bodies were brought to the boathouse and respectfully passed into the care of the coroners officers.

Second Coxswain, Lee Blacknell said: 'These launches are always difficult for our crew and we treat the casualties with dignity and respect. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the persons recovered.'