A major search and rescue response to a reported boat fire off the Isle of Wight, involving 2 lifeboats, a Coastguard Rescue helicopter and Border Force, is thought to be a hoax – with no stricken vessel or anyone in distress located.
It was just before 11:50 this morning (Thursday) that Solent Coastguard was made aware of a vessel reporting to be ablaze in the vicinity of Ventnor.
Coastguard Rescue 175 helicopter from Lee-on-Solent was immediately scrambled from its base, arriving in the skies of the South Wight to conduct a hasty search of the local area. A leg search to the off St Catherine’s Point was then undertaken.
At the same time, Bembridge RNLI’s All Weather Lifeboat, already on the water attending a concern for welfare incident in Seaview, was immediately re-tasked to Ventnor, making best speed.
Lerwick RNLI’s All Weather Lifeboat – transitting from Poole back to the Shetland Islands – was also requested to assist in the search for the casualty vessel, as was the Border Force’s ‘Seeker’ patrol vessel.
On the Island, multiple appliances from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were mobilised towards the area.
However, it is thought that the major search and rescue operation, costing thousands of pounds, is a suspected hoax.
A spokesperson has said:
“HM Coastguard received a report at about 11:35 on 30th October describing smoke from a vessel in waters between Shanklin and Bonchurch.
“An HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter was sent, as well as the RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat from Bembridge, Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team, and the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.
“A search was carried out, with no one found to be in distress or any vessel in difficulty.”
UPDATE FRIDAY – HM Coastguard has issued an update to say they are now treating the incident as a false alarm with good intent.
