Anstruther RNLI lifeboats launched to Elie Chain Walk to rescue two women
On Monday lunchtime (13 April) both of the Anstruther RNLI lifeboats were launched to rescue two female holidaymakers from the rocks at Elie Chain Walk who had got themselves into difficulty.
At 1.41pm HM Coastguard requested the launch of both Anstruther RNLI lifeboats to assist two female holidaymakers who had been attempting to traverse the Chain Walk at Elie. It was reported that one of the casualties had suffered a suspected muscular injury and could not continue or were able to retrace their way back.
By 2pm the Anstruther volunteer crew had assembled and both lifeboats were launched in quick succession. The first to deploy was the inshore D class lifeboat, Akira, quickly followed by the all-weather lifeboat, Robert and Catherine Steen. Both lifeboats headed towards Elie in a slight swell, with a Force 3 South Easterly wind.
Within 20 minutes of being launched, both Anstruther lifeboats were on the scene and the volunteer Anster crews had located the two casualties and quickly assessed what was required to complete a safe extraction. The inshore lifeboat was used to assist the two casualties from the rocks and transfer them to the supporting all-weather lifeboat.
The Shannon all-weather lifeboat, using its twin waterjet engines, quickly made its way to Elie Harbour, and by 2.37pm the casualties were handed over to the awaiting Coastguard Rescue Teams from St. Andrews and Leven who were able to complete a further assessment of the casualties to determine if any further medical support was required.
The incident was terminated and both Anstruther lifeboats returned to Anstruther Harbour, and after being rehoused, washed down and refuelled, the Coastguard was informed at 3.30pm that both lifeboats were ready and on standby for any future tasking requests.
Tam Bett, Anstruther RNLI Senior Station Technician and Helm of the inshore lifeboat, said: ‘This incident fortunately resulted in a positive outcome with only one of the casualties suffering a muscular injury. What helped their situation was they had quickly realised that they were stuck and did not take any further risks and called for help by dialling 999 and requesting the assistance of the Coastguard.
'It was also pleasing to see that they were both wearing suitable wet weather clothing and walking boots. If you are intending to tackle the Chain Walk at Elie, please treat it with respect by knowing your own limits, check the weather forecast and tide times, and you are wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, and ensure you are carrying a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch, just in case accidents happen.’
End
Notes to editors
The attached video shows the Anstruther RNLI all-weather lifeboat, Robert and Catherine Steen launching and heading to Elie Chain Walk. Credit Anstruther RNLI.
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