NEWS: Two people rescued after fishing vessel sank off Dungeness


Two crew were rescued from the sea off Dungeness early this morning after a fishing vessel sank in the English Channel. 

At 03:28 BST UK Coastguards at Dover were alerted by their French counterparts at Cap Griz Nez that they had received a mayday call from a fishing vessel in difficulties. The fishing vessel sent out a distress alert using VHF radio reporting that they were taking on water. The fishermen were in UK waters approximately 10 miles south west of Dungeness Point.

The RNLI lifeboat based at Dungeness was sent along with the Coastguard Rescue Helicopter, based at Lydd. Three fishing vessels and a Cargo ship also responded.

The fishermen were recovered from a life raft by one of the fishing vessels and Dungeness RNLI All Weather Lifeboat attempted to pump the water off the sinking boat but, due to the volume of water, the vessel sank. After it was known that the fishermen were safe and well the Coastguard Rescue Helicopter was stood down.


The crew were taken back to Boulogne-sur-mer on the fishing vessel that recovered them from the water. 


UK Coastguard Julia Fuller said:

“The Coastguard recommends that where possible, all vessels are fitted with VHF DSC radio equipment, which can send a distress alert that will enable us to get help to the right place as soon as possible.

“This incident also serves as another reminder of why you should wear a lifejacket and have an appropriate life raft. I’m sure this crew were thankful that they had them whilst they waited to be rescued.”




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