A flashing light, assumed to be attached to a floating horseshoe-shaped buoy from a boat, resulted in a land and sea search involving Cowes RNLI lifeboat and on-shore coastguards last night (Tuesday).
Responding to reports that a light was spotted flashing near the main breakwater at the mouth of the River Medina, the lifeboat launched at 9.53pm to begin an extensive search of the area.
Bag containing personal items found
Meanwhile coastguards from Bembridge combed the East Cowes shore, in which a bag containing personal items was found.
Although the lifeboat, which had to contend with lively seas and strong winds, managed to recover the flashing light-buoy, nothing else was found.
Search called off
Solent coastguards finally agreed the search should be called off and the lifeboat returned to station at 10.52pm.
Image: © RNLI/Andy Miles
