Rescues and Close Calls: A Week in the Life of Lands End Coastguard

Lands End Coastguard Search & Rescue Team had a busy and challenging week, responding to multiple incidents in the far southwest. Their swift actions helped bring several precarious situations to a safe conclusion.

Sennen Cove Emergency on 16th August

On Friday, 16th August, the team was called to an incident at Sennen Cove. Details about the incident remain scarce, but the team was later stood down and returned to their station without further action.

Injured Person Rescued at Porthmeor Cove

A more complex situation unfolded on Monday, 19th August, when the team was dispatched to assist the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. The call involved an injured person in a challenging location, with initial details about their whereabouts unclear.

The team rendezvoused at Bosigran Farm before heading to the coast path in search of the casualty. After a short but intensive search, they found the individual on rocks just above the beach at Porthmeor Cove, a spot almost invisible from the top of the cliffs.

Upon reaching the casualty, the team assessed the situation and began planning the extraction. The Cornwall Air Ambulance soon arrived, landing at a suitable clearing higher up the coast path. After considering all available options, it was decided that the safest course of action was to use the coastguard helicopter, Rescue924, to winch the injured person from their precarious position.

Once the helicopter had successfully lifted the casualty, the team set up a helicopter landing site (HLS) for the transfer to a waiting ambulance. With the casualty safely on their way to further medical care, the team returned to their station.

Cliffside Concern at Kenidjack

On Tuesday, 20th August, the coastguard team was once again called into action, this time responding to a report of a person near the cliff edge at Kenidjack. Fearing the worst, two team members approached the individual to check on their wellbeing.

To the relief of all involved, the person was simply enjoying the stunning view and was in no danger. After a brief conversation, the coastguard team returned to their station, grateful for the assistance provided by Cape Cornwall National Coastwatch Institution in locating the person.

Tragic Incident Near Land’s End

The team faced a sombre situation on Thursday, 22nd August, when they were dispatched to a dog-related incident near Land’s End. Although details are limited, the coastguard expressed their sympathies to the owners during this difficult time.

Stay Safe on the Coast

These incidents underscore the importance of vigilance and preparedness when near the coast. The Lands End Coastguard reminds everyone that if you see someone in danger on the coast, you should immediately call 999 and ask for the coastguard. Their rapid response can make all the difference in saving lives.