Weymouth RNLI lifeboats aid in evacuation of fallen climber

This turned out to be a multi agency operation involving the RNLI, Coastguards, Air Ambulance and South West Ambulance Service.

A climber had fallen and was suffering from a suspected broken ankle. He was located by Coastguards and stabilised by paramedics from the Air Ambulance.

He was then transported by Coastguards to a safe place on the shore for transfer to the RNLI all-weather lifeboat via the lifeboats tender referred to as a Y boat.

The casualty and paramedics from the Air Ambulance were taken from the shore to the RNLI lifeboat Ernest and Mabel who was just a hundred meters from shore.

Once aboard the lifeboat the volunteer crew recovered the Y boat and the lifeboat returned to Weymouth Harbour where the casualty was transferred to a waiting ambulance.

The volunteer crew then refuelled the lifeboat and made ready for the next shout.

RNLI Coxswain Andy Sargent said;' This was a good example of a multi agency rescue ensuring the best care for the casualty. Luckily the weather permitted the use of the Y Boat which made the operation much easier.'

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.