Dramatic footage of Coastguard Helicopter Winchman landing on a narrow ledge to rescue two walkers
The
HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter at St Athan has just released
dramatic footage after rescuing two women from Nash Point in South Wales after
they got cut off by the rising tide.
Yesterday
(2 November) the two walkers raised the alarm at 2.45pm after making a 999 call
to the Coastguard explaining that they were in a hard to reach location on the
western side of Nash Point, five metres above the rising tide.
Llanwit
Major Coastguard Rescue Team, Porthcawl RNLI all weather and inshore lifeboats
and the St Athan Coastguard helicopter were all sent to the scene.
Due
to the precarious position they were in, the women were airlifted by the
helicopter to the top of the cliff where they were met by the waiting
Coastguard Rescue Team. Thankfully they were safe and well and required
no medical treatment.
Olly Padbury, Chief Pilot for the St Athan Coastguard helicopter said: 'This mission was an excellent example of how well our Coastguard Rescue Teams and the RNLI work together to protect those on our coastline. The
winching was made difficult by the overhanging cliff, but the winch operator
did brilliantly to get our winchman to the trapped walkers. It was great
to be able to help the walkers, who both did the right thing by calling for
help and then staying put.
'The rescue could have been much more dangerous
had they tried to climb up the cliff or jumped into the water. The
coastline in that area looks so inviting at low tide, but many people get
caught out by how fast the tide rises in the Bristol Channel. Hopefully
this rescue will remind others to consider the tide before walking along the
water’s edge.'
HM Coastguard Duty Controller, Aimee Rampton: ‘These walkers did exactly the
right thing to call the Coastguard as soon as they realised they were getting
into difficulty.
‘It’s
easy to get caught up in enjoying time on the beach or exploring coastal areas
but make sure you keep a careful eye on the sea which can easily catch you out - even those with extensive knowledge of tides.
‘By following a few simple safety tips from the UK
Coastguard, we can make sure that people get the most of their trip to the
coast.
‘Make sure that you are properly equipped for walking
along coastal paths. In particular remember to wear sturdy shoes or boots and
check the weather forecast and tidal times before you set out. Carry a mobile
phone, and tell someone where you are going and what time you will be home.
‘Do not attempt to climb up or down cliffs unless you
are properly equipped and trained to do so. Do not attempt to climb cliffs as a
short cut back to the top and remember if things do go wrong or if you see someone in
difficulty, don’t hesitate to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’