A huge search and rescue operation is underway in the English Channel after parts of a pleasure boat were discovered washed up on the coastline. The alarm was raised at around 8.45am today (May 9).
RNLI lifeboats and helicopters have scrambled to the scene off Hastings, East Sussex. HM Coastguard is reportedly coordinating the rapid response.
The RNLI said in a statement: “Hastings RNLI all-weather lifeboat launched at 8.57am today after being tasked by HM Coastguard.”
A marine tracking website has shown more vessels have been tasked with combing the waters, with the Finnish Navy also believed to be drafted in. Two Border Force boats are also out.
This is an ongoing incident, with more updates unfolding. See the latest in our blog, below.