DIVER RESCUED FROM SHIPPING LANE IN CHANNEL

A diver was rescued from the North East shipping lane of the Dover Strait this afternoon after he was spotted in the water shouting for help.

He was spotted in the middle of the Channel, near the Sandettie South West Buoy, at approximately quarter to four, by a passing ship. They called Dover Coastguard who immediately sent the RAF Rescue helicopter from Wattisham and the RNLI lifeboats from Walmer and Dover to the scene. Dover Coastguard also broadcast a warning to vessels in the area.

Around twenty minutes later Dover Coastguard was told by a dive boat in the area that their diver was missing. Dover lifeboat was sent to the dive boat to find out more information about the missing person.
 
Just as Walmer lifeboat was reaching the scene the merchant vessel ‘Edenborg’, who had heard the alert and was keeping a look out told Dover Coastguard that they could see a person in the water in front of their ship. The ‘Edenborg’ slowed down to help the person and was able to guide Walmer lifeboat. The lifeboat then rescued the diver from the shipping lane.

The dive boat confirmed that this was their missing diver and they were reunited before returning to Dover Harbour safe and well, escorted by Dover lifeboat.

Dover Coastguard Watch Manager Sarah Bray said:

“We’re not sure how the diver came to be adrift in the shipping lane but he was lucky to be spotted by such a large vessel and rescued so quickly.

“The diver was diving solo and wearing the correct equipment for this time of year but we were unaware that a dive was taking place in our area. Divers are advised to make the Coastguard aware of their plans at the start of a dive operation for their own safety.”

-Ends-

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