2 of Red Funnel’s ferries have been involved in an incident on Southampton Water this morning (Thursday) following the discovery of what is thought to be a body floating in the water.
It was shortly before 10:00 that the crew of Red Osprey – which was travelling from East Cowes to Southampton – spotted an object in the water near to Calshot Spit.
After alerting HM Coastguard to the find, the vehicle ferry did an about-turn and stood by as emergency services were mobilised.
The ferry is now on its way to dock in Southampton as normal having been relieved by the freight ferry Red Kestrel, which is standing by as volunteers from Calshot RNLI recover the body to shore.
Those travelling on the 09:00 sailing from East Cowes are expected to be delayed in their arrival in Southampton by 45 minutes, which will have knock-on effects to other sailings as the day progresses.
UPDATE @ 10:30 – Red Kestrel is now also underway again, heading towards Southampton.
The body has been recovered by Calshot RNLI’s inshore lifeboat.
UPDATE @ 11:30 – A spokesperson for Red Funnel said:
“This morning, during our 09:00 Red Osprey crossing from East Cowes, our team assisted the police with an incident in the water.
“We acted swiftly to support the authorities while prioritising the safety of our passengers.
“The service has now resumed, but there will be a 20-minute delay to the 12:00 crossing from East Cowes.
“We appreciate our passengers’ understanding and patience this morning.”
UPDATE @ 16:15 – A Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesperson has said:
“We were called around 10:30 after the body of a man was sadly found in the water and brought ashore at Calshot.
“Enquiries are ongoing at this time.”
Island Echo understands that the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance was scrambled to the scene but nothing could be done to save the man’s life.
