The summer of 2016 was a busy, rewarding time for volunteer lifeboat crews in Rye Bay. The Lifeboat launched on a regular basis as thousands of people enjoyed the sunshine on Camber Sands and water sports out in the bay.
Many people were rescued, but 2016 will sadly be remembered as a year which ended in tragedy for those who lost their lives to the sea.
Rye Harbour Lifeboat rescued 24 people, 2 dogs and 12 various craft this summer and carried out extensive searches for missing persons, often complementing other rescue services. The RNLI operates a 24/7 rescue service around our shores which is managed and crewed by volunteers who give their time and expertise in an effort to save lives.
Lifeboat Operations Manager Richard Tollett, who has been a dedicated RNLI volunteer for 49 years, always asks people to be cautious when enjoying the coastline around Rye Bay. He said ‘We are lucky to have such a beautiful and natural coastline that everyone can enjoy, but please remember that the wind, tides and currents can create dangers which are not always obvious to bathers and pleasure boat users. The RNLI website or official YouTube channel are a great source of information for anyone who wants to enjoy the sea’.
Rye Harbour RNLI lifeboat station are actively seeking new volunteers and donations to fund our new lifeboat.
You can follow Rye Harbour Lifeboat on Twitter @RyeLifeboat
Source: Rye harbour RNLI
Photos: Steve Griffin – Press Officer Rye Harbour RNLI