2 drunk men who were seen drifting in a shipping lane in the middle of the Solent were recovered by the Hampshire Police Marine Unit yesterday evening (Monday).
The Marine Police Unit said that the men were apparently trying to reach the Isle of Wight, but were spotted floating about, before being convinced to board the MSU vessel after drifting into a shipping lane, with a container vessel just 10 minutes away from them.
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said:
“We were called at around 18:30 yesterday to reports of 2 intoxicated men who were believed to be acting aggressively in an inflatable kayak in The Solent, 2 miles south of Stokes Bay.
“We sent our marine unit to the scene and convinced the 2 men to get on board.
“Safeguarding advice was given and we dropped them back on land, at Stokes Bay, at around 19:00.”
Hampshire Police Marine Unit’s Sergent Matthew Grandsen spoke about the incident. He said:
“These 2 men had managed to end up in the middle of a shipping lane, with a container ship from Southampton about 10 minutes away from them. Thankfully, we managed to get them safely to shore but it could quite easily have had a different outcome.
Article continues below this advertisement “This incident highlights the very real dangers of drinking alcohol and going out on the water, particularly in inflatable craft which are much more susceptible to the wind. We reminded the 2 individuals involved of how strong the tides in the Solent area are and how quickly they can change, even if the water appears to be calm.
“These men also had no safety equipment onboard their kayak. I would urge members of the public to always make sure they are properly equipped when at sea.”
Probably got fed up waiting for Red Funnel
YO ! HO ! HO ! And a bottle of anything really, what couple of wallies
You couldn’t make it up.
Seems we are a nation of budding drunken seafarers, as well (as football hooligans).
– Make them walk the plank.
Idiots….. hope they get charged. Surely it’s illegal to be in control of a small kayak on the sea, it is if your on a pushbike and drunk.
It’s legal. Tons of people drink while kayaking. Including me.
Alan you mad lad
It is the same limit as drink driving, but the police are the only ones that can carryout the testing.
No charges? Why do I pay for the police
How far do we have to go to protect idiots from themselves?