Hazardous rescue on single engineThe RNLI's chief of operations has written to the Newhaven lifeboat station congratulating Second Coxswain Paddy Boyle for his skilful boathandling when he rescued a person from the water on 29 October 1989.

The station's Arun class relief lifeboat Ralph and Bonella Farrant had returned from an exercise after developing a fault with her port engine when a telephone call was received at the boathouse saying that a man was in danger of drowning off the western harbour arm.

An immediate decision was made to launch and the lifeboat put to sea at 1230 with only the starboard engine in operation.

The casualty had been swimming in the surf when he was dragged out by the undertow and swept towards the wavescreen at the base of the breakwater.

The wind was westerly, at least Force 6 to 7 and possible Force 8 and the sea was rough.with a severe backwash at the base of the breakwater.

The lifeboat arrived at the scene at 1239 and the crew spotted the man about 50ftfrom the wave screen. Second Coxswain Boyle brought the Arun in from the south and with the lifeboat rolling heavily beam on to the sea the crew on the foredeck were able to throw the casualty a heaving line and hoist the man aboard with the A-frame.

The swimmer was taken ashore and did not require any medical assistance, his wet suit undoubtedly helping avoid exposure.

The chief of operations' letter says that the Second Coxswain's immediate decision to launch and skilful boat handling without doubt saved the man's life..