A ferry was diverted to assist in an emergency search after reports of a windsurfer in difficulty in the Solent yesterday evening.
HM Coastguard received the alert at around 7.30pm, prompting a multi-agency response at Stokes Bay, near Gosport.
The incident involved coastguard rescue teams from Portsmouth and Hillhead, a coastguard helicopter, Gosport lifeboat, Fareham Inshore Rescue Service and other vessels in the area.
Wightlink’s Victoria of Wight, which operates the Fishbourne-Portsmouth route, was tasked to assist by the King’s Harbour Master, leading to disruption for passengers.
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In a message to customers, Wightlink warned of delays of up to 60 minutes and advised travellers to check the company’s service status while efforts were made to return services to normal.
A Coastguard spokesperson said that, after a search of the area and discussions with windsurfers nearby, it was confirmed no one was in difficulty.
The incident was stood down as a “false alarm with good intent.”
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