Yacht runs aground near Seven Sisters and Birling Gap

The 16 metre boat became stranded this morning around 4am between the Cuckmere Valley and Birling Gap, near Eastbourne.

Coastguard crews from Birling Gap, Newhaven RNLI and the Coastguard helicopter from Lydd in Kent were required for the rescue.

It remains under the cliffs while rescue crews work out how to salvage it. 

HM Coastguard have been dealing with the incident

It is currently low tide, while the next high tide will be just after 10pm tonight.

A Wealden District council spokeswoman said: “We are aware of an ongoing incident after a vessel ran aground in shallow waters between Cuckmere Haven and Birling Gap.

“We are liaising with HM Coastguard which is dealing with the incident. People are being urged to stay away from the boat and the area.”

The boat departed Dover on Saturday.

It remains below the cliffs currently

The boat, called Cape Michelle, can be seen listed to its left side.

The sea has been relatively choppy today, with waves exceeding one metre high.

A Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) spokeswoman said: “At approximately 4am today, July 25, HM Coastguard were alerted to a sailing vessel with one person on board dragging anchor and running aground off the coast of Newhaven.

Rescue crews are working out how to remove the boat

"Birling Gap Coastguard Rescue Team were sent, alongside Newhaven RNLI lifeboat and the Coastguard helicopter from Lydd.

“The person was safely removed from the vessel by the lifeboat and taken to shore, while discussions are ongoing regarding salvage of the vessel.

"It is assumed there is a small quantity of diesel on board the vessel which, if released, would not have a long-term detrimental effect on the environment.

"MCA Counter Pollution and Salvage are in contact with the local authority and continue to monitor the situation.”