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Skipper dies in English Channel Fisherman feared dead off coast
(about 6 hours later)
The skipper of a Belgian fishing boat has died after disappearing in inclement weather off the Sussex coast. The skipper of a Belgian fishing boat is feared dead after disappearing overboard off the Sussex coast.
Coastguards said the captain of the vessel Zilmereeuw was taken to the Royal Sussex Hospital in Brighton but he could not be recovered. The captain of the vessel Zilmermeeuw was reported missing by his crew 15 miles south of Newhaven.
The Belgian national disappeared 15 miles off Newhaven on Sunday while his crew were having lunch below deck. Solent Coastguard sent its rescue helicopter with lifeboats from Newhaven and Eastbourne joining the search.
A rescue helicopter, Newhaven and Eastbourne lifeboats and six other fishing vessels helped with the search. Sussex Police later confirmed that a body had been found but not formally identified. The incident will now be investigated by Belgian police.
Solent Coastguards said the man, who went missing in winds of up to 23 knots, had not been wearing a lifejacket or survival suit. Solent Coastguard watch manager, Colin Griffiths said the weather had been "inclement with westerly winds up to 23 knots, poor visibility, rain and sleet".
He added: "We know that the skipper was not wearing a lifejacket or survival suit."
Six fishing and commercial vessels also offered their assistance after a request was broadcast to shipping in the area.