Emergency services sprang into action early this morning after reports of a swimmer in difficulty near the West Pier in Brighton. Shoreham’s All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) was paged at 8:01 a.m., followed by the Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) at 8:25 a.m., for an immediate launch by the Coastguard. Lifeboat crews, alongside Coastguard teams, were directed to the scene to aid in the urgent search and rescue operation.
Swift Response Leads to Rescue
Lifeboats were dispatched promptly to the West Pier area, where they joined forces with Coastguard teams. After the swimmer was recovered from the sea, the lifeboat headed to Brighton Marina, where the individual was transferred to awaiting paramedics from the South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb).
A Sussex Police spokesperson confirmed the timeline of events, stating, “Police were alerted to a man in difficulty in the sea in Hove about 7:52 a.m. on Monday, 25 November. The man was recovered from the water and has been transported to hospital for treatment.”
Ambulance Service Describes Serious Condition
The South East Coast Ambulance Service also provided details of their involvement. A spokesperson said, “We were called following concerns for a person in the sea near Brunswick Terrace, Hove. The person was rescued by the Coastguard and brought to Brighton Marina, where they met ambulance crews. The person has been taken to hospital in a serious condition.”
Swimmer’s Condition Remains Uncertain
The swimmer’s current condition has not been disclosed, and it remains unclear what led to the distressing incident. Emergency services have emphasised the collaborative effort between the lifeboat crews, Coastguard, and paramedics in ensuring the individual was brought to safety.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sea and the critical importance of rapid intervention by emergency services. Further updates are expected as more details become available.