Girls trapped on dinghy

Their 13 year old friend was able to call emergency services for help and Bexhill Coastuard officers already out on patrol were alerted.

Due to the number of dinghies off the beach that day Deputy Station Officer Bob Kenward of Hastings Coastguard was also asked to help find the two girls.

Hastings Inshore Lifeboat was scrambled to the scene which was just east of the storm water outfall pipe opposite Harold Place.

On arrival the two girls were found to be wet and cold, and were clearly relieved to see the crew of the Lifeboat.

Gary Tidman, Deputy Station Officer at Bexhill Coastguard commented, "The girls had put to sea without oars, or a tether to the shore...Had the weather conditions not been so favourable, or had their friend not demonstrated the good sense to call us, it could of been far more serious.

"Inflatable toys, airbeds and dinghies are not safe for use in the sea. They can easily be blown out away from the shore with the lightest of breezes.

"We know that many people still take the risk. If you do; adults should always supervise children on inflatables, always tether the dinghy, never use them in strong winds or rough seas, always follow the advice of lifeguards or displayed flags and warning signs.

"If you see any one in an inflatable dinghy in distress or feel that they're drifting to an unsafe distance from the shore, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard."