Anstruther RNLI launch to female after 20-foot cliff fall
Anstruther RNLI launched this afternoon (Wednesday 20 May) to the aid of a female who had fallen 20 feet from the Elie Chain Walk
The casualty had sustained injuries to both ankles. After a medical assessment, a transfer by sea on the lifeboat was decided to be safest method of evacuation.
The casualty sailed the short distance to neighbouring Shell Bay and was handed over to waiting paramedic and Coastguard teams.
This was the volunteer crews first call out in over 10 weeks and the first during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Volunteer helm Barry Gourlay extended his thanks to his crew. Barry said: 'This was our first call out in over 10 weeks but that did not show. We train to a high standard and that training helped ensure we were able to execute this rescue swiftly and safely'.
The month of May is an important one for the charity as this is our annual fundraising campaign - Mayday.
During this pandemic, conventional fundraising is not possible but the charity's 'on call' status has not changed.
Commenting on this, Barry said: 'Throughout this pandemic, the volunteers at Anstruther join 237 other lifeboat station who remain ready to respond if requested. We thank our supporters and ask that you stick by us during this challenging time so we can continue to save lives at sea'.
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.
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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.