Seaford Mermaids raise thousands for RNLI after Cuckmere sea tragedy

A swimmer, unrelated to the group, had got into difficulty in the water.

Despite the best efforts of an HM Coastguard swimmer, who swam out to the casualty and recovered them to shore, the swimmer was pronounced dead after being helicoptered to Eastbourne District General Hospital

The Newhaven RNLI lifeboat was also on scene, but due to sea conditions, was unable to come in close enough to shore to assist.

On Monday, November 16, the Seaford Mermaids gathered as usual and conversation turned to the tragedy of the previous day.

The swimmers collectively reflected that they have had a few close-calls between them over the years, but managed to self-recover or assist one another in those instances.

They realised however, that they might not always be so fortunate and one day might need urgent help themselves.

Later that day founder Ruth Rose sent out a message on their WhatsApp group suggesting they might all consider making a small annual donation to the RNLI.

She was bowled over by the speed and size of response. Since her first tally on Tuesday, November 17, further donations have rolled in.

Now totalling in excess of £7,000 with indications from the group that it will exceed £10,000.

Ruth said: “I am overwhelmed by their generosity.”

Lewis Arnold, RNLI coxswain for Newhaven, went along to meet the Mermaids to thank them in person for their inspiring fundraising response.

He said: “The funds raised by the Mermaids are critical for the RNLI. They make it possibly for us to be there when we are needed, to save lives at sea and we thank them.”