Southern 091/01
17 April 2001

COASTGUARD FIND MAN OVER CLIFF SAFE AND WELL

Solent Coastguard were called at 9.30 am on 17 April 2001 to report that a 62 year old man had gone over the cliff with his dog (although he was later found to have scrambled down the cliff). The Coastguard requested the assistance of Coastguard Rescue Helicopter India Juliet from Lee on Solent as well as the Newhaven and Burling Gap Cliff Rescue Teams. Newhaven Lifeboat was also launched and patrolled the cliff base.

The man, who was on holiday in the area and had been staying at the caravan site at Peacehaven Heights, was found safe and well at the base of the cliffs. He was assisted up the 70 metre high chalk cliffs along with his dog, which was unfortunately found dead, by the cliff teams.

Bob Knox, Watch Manager at Solent Coastguard said, "We are pleased to have found the man safe and well, although saddened to hear that his dog did not survive. Conditions for searching were good with a calm sea and good visibility."