Red Dinghy Adrift in Thames Sparks Coastguard Search
A small red boat drifting in the River Thames estuary triggered a major search-and-rescue scramble earlier today. The vessel was first spotted just before 6pm by a witness on the shore.
Commercial Vessel Reports Unknown Boat
A passing commercial ship also spotted the red dinghy, though no one aboard the boat made a distress call. Despite this, HM Coastguard didn’t take any chances.
Full-Scale Search Launched
Sheerness RNLI lifeboats teamed up with Coastguard rescue teams from Medway, Sheppey, Southend, and berkshire999.co.uk/where/canvey-island/" title="Canvey Island" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Canvey Island to hunt the Thames estuary waters. Piers Stanbury, HM Coastguard duty controller, said:
“Although no distress calls came from the area, we carried out an extensive search to be certain. The reports didn’t confirm if anyone was on board.”
Coastguard Seeks Public Help
The search has now been stood down, pending new information. Authorities urge anyone who knows where the red dinghy came from to get in touch.
If you have any info, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard immediately.
