Cowes RNLI lifeboat raced to the aid of a man whose condition caused serious concern after his kayak capsized on the choppy Solent earlier today (Sunday).
The incident occurred off the entrance to Beaulieu River, but before the lifeboat arrived on scene the casualty had been pulled from the water by the crew of a passing yacht.
Due to the man’s condition Coastguard Rescue 175 helicopter from Lee-on-Solent was quickly scrambled to the scene. While the lifeboat stood by, the man was lifted into the helicopter and flown to Southampton General Hospital.
Lifeboat station Deputy Launching Authority, Sandy Steen, said he understood the man was 1 of 4 kayakers:
“When taken aboard the yacht he was suffering from hyperthermia and very seasick”.
The lifeboat, which launched at 10:35, returned to station at 11:20.
Yarmouth RNLI and Bembridge RNLI have also been on the water today – details to follow.
