Both
of Hastings RNLI lifeboats were called out at 10.30am yesterday
morning following reports of people in the sea off St Leonards.

The volunteer crews of both Hastings lifeboats had
their Christmas morning interrupted by a call from the Coastguard
because of people in the sea off St Leonards.

With the wind gusting to
Force 9, both boats raced to the scene knowing that anybody in the water
in such conditions could quickly be in trouble.

By the time the boats arrived, the people in the sea had apparently
been swept back to shore with unfortunately one casualty being seriously
injured and evacuated by air ambulance.

The Hastings all-weather lifeboat stayed on scene until all were
accounted for before returning to the lifeboat station through a three-metre swell.

Hastings RNLI Coxswain Steve Warne said: ‘This was a difficult
search, carried out in difficult weather conditions.

‘It is also a stark
reminder to those who go near the sea that sometimes events can take a
nasty turn.

‘We at the RNLI ask people to be vigilant and careful, and if
the sea is rough to keep well away.’

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