At 2.8 a.m. on 21st September, 1969, it was learnt that flares had been sighted off Seaford. At 2.28 the life-boat Kathleen Mary was launched. It was one hour after low water. The life-boat came up with the motor boat Tuna with one man aboard. The life-boat took the motor boat in tow to harbour, returning to her station at 3.50. At this time a report was received that the tug Criani and the m.f.v. Wilhelimina Johanna had collided off Beachy Head. The life-boat crew stood by in harbour in case assistance should be required. At 7.30 the tug made harbour and the life-boat crew were stood down..