Both of Hastings Lifeboats were requested to launch shortly after 1030 am on Christmas morning to a report of numerous people in the water at St Leonards.

The Inshore Lifeboat was launched first into the horrendous conditions, followed soon after by the All Weather Lifeboat. once the ILB had made its difficult passage to the scene, a search was started in the area for one or more casualties. Soon after, the casualty was found at the water’s edge and the emergency services on scene quickly recovered her and CPR was commenced.

Following further investigations by Police and Coastguards it was discovered that the other people reported in the water had made it ashore.

With this in mind and the deteriorating conditions on scene (wind blowing 45 kts) the ILB was stood down and returned to station, the ALB remained on scene for a short time whilst other emergency services were still working on the beach and then also returned to station.

After difficult recoveries both lifeboats were made ready for service and the crews returned home to their families.

Subsequently the station has heard that tragically the woman has since died from her injuries, Our thoughts are with the family and friends at this difficult time.

Crew: Steve Warne, Graham Furness, Mike Eustace, Tim Walsh, Colin Bewes, Peter Sharrod