Frantic coastguard search for pleasure boat is called off hours after debris spotted off UK coast

A FRANTIC coastguard search for a pleasure boat has been called off hours after debris was spotted off the UK coast.

The alarm was raised around 8.45 on Thursday morning after parts of a vessel were spotted in waters off the coast of Hastings.

The coastguard has since stood down the search after successfully identifying the debris.

Investigations found it was from a boat that ran aground last month.

Border Force and the Coastguard were called to the scene, near Seaford Head, on April 19 where they found a sailing vessel washed up at the base of the cliffs.

Both people onboard made it to land safe and well.

The RNLI all-weather lifeboat and Border Force vessel Seeker, from Dover, were deployed to the scene today.

Ship Finnish minelayer FNS Uusimma, which was on its way to Cadiz in Spain, also helped with search efforts.

The HM Coastguard helicopter flew overhead as it searched further north of the Hastings area.

All ships involved in the search are now leaving the scene, along with the chopper.

A spokesperson for the coastguard said: “HM Coastguard is coordinating the response to a report of parts of a vessel found in waters south of Hastings.

“A HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft have been sent, as well as the RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat from Hastings.

“Nearby vessels are also assisting.”

The Home Office said the search was being led by the HM Coastguard.