2 Southampton men who got into difficulties in a strong ebb tide became the subject of a cross-Solent dash by Cowes lifeboat this afternoon (Thursday).
The men, who were middle-aged, had entered the sea at Stanwood Point, Lepe, and had apparently been struggling after being in the water for about 30 minutes. Fortunately, they were then helped ashore by a kayaker. The lifeboat arrived at the beach to provide initial on-the-spot medical support.
Lifeboat crew member, Jack Banks, said:
“We found them to be very tired and to have swallowed a lot of water.
“We provided casualty care and were joined by coastguards from Lymington. Eventually the men were taken by ambulance to hospital in Southampton.
“The reason they gave for taking the plunge was they just wanted to cool off in the heat.”
The lifeboat had launched at launched at 2 pm and returned to station at 14:55.
