An HM Coastguard Rescue Helicopter Winch Paramedic has been awarded one of the UK’s most prestigious search and rescue honours for a breathtaking rescue in Newhaven, East Sussex, that was captured on video by a local news page admin.
Chris Purkiss, part of the Lydd-based R163 Coastguard Rescue Helicopter team, was presented with the Billy Deacon SAR Memorial Trophy at the House of Commons on 9 July. The award recognises outstanding bravery in maritime rescue and is part of the Air League’s Annual Reception Ceremony.
The incident unfolded in July last year, when emergency services responded to a wrecked yacht smashed against Newhaven Breakwater. The lone sailor aboard the vessel was in imminent danger as it broke up on the rocks amid fierce gale-force winds and surging seas.
Purkiss was winched down to the stricken yacht under extreme conditions. Unable to use the standard rescue strop due to the rapidly deteriorating situation, he physically held onto the sailor with sheer strength, all while submerged in crashing waves and surrounded by debris from the disintegrating boat. He managed to secure the casualty until both were safely dropped onto the breakwater by the helicopter crew.
One of the Sussex News admins who filmed the dramatic rescue described the scene:
“At one point, I thought they lost the winchman. The bravery shown in this video is just incredible. The wind was so strong that holding a camera was difficult enough — let alone conducting a life-or-death rescue in those conditions. A massive shout out to the helicopter crew, Newhaven Lifeboat, Newhaven Coastguard, and Birling Gap Coastguard. It’s a miracle they got the man out alive. An award well deserved.”
George Rawlinson MBE, Chair of the Award Committee, praised Purkiss’s actions:
“This time-critical, incredibly demanding rescue was completed despite considerable personal risk. Chris showed skill, physical strength, and mental resilience, risking his own life to save another, while being submerged in breaking seas several times. It is a richly deserved award in the best traditions of the maritime rescue service.”
The operation involved a multi-agency response including Newhaven RNLI, local Coastguard teams from Newhaven and Birling Gap, and the Coastguard helicopter.
This story is a powerful reminder of the bravery, teamwork, and commitment of our emergency services, who often risk their lives to save others — even in the most extreme conditions.
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