Two climbers had to be airlifted to safety after getting stuck on West Cumbrian cliffs in the early hours.
Volunteers from Whitehaven and Maryport Coastguard Rescue Teams were called just before midnight yesterday, April 28, to the cliffs near St Bees lighthouse.
The climbers had been bouldering around the base of the cliffs and after finishing had becoming benighted. They attempted to climb the cliffs trying to return to safety, but lost their way and became stuck on the cliffs.
They stopped on a ledge and called 999 for the Coastguard. Although they were not injured, they needed help to get off the cliffs.
They were able to detail their precise location. The Coastguard deployed a search party and used a parachute illuminating flare to find the climbers.
The Coastguard teams were putting a rope rescue in place, but it was decided that due to the terrain above the climbers – which included loose sandstone – it would be a lower risk to request a helicopter.
The Coastguard Rescue helicopter was called and agreed to attend to assess the situation.
A Whitehaven Coastguard Rescue Team spokesman said: “With our rope rescue system established we stood by to await the arrival and assessment by the helicopter crew, whilst establishing a helicopter landing site on the cliff top in a field away from farm cattle, keeping our rescue options open.
“With the helicopter soon on scene and completed their assessment, they agreed to winch both of the casualties aboard and land, after which safety advice was given to the two climbers before they headed on their way.
“The teams then debriefed and dismantled the rescue setup, before departing scene to clean down.
“Our thanks to the local farmers for their continued support in allowing us to maintain access to their land, reducing the distance to carry equipment needed at our rescue scenes.”
