Rescue services are called into action over busy weekend

Rescue services are called into action over busy weekend

12 March 2025

VOLUNTEERS from the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team and Newcastle Coastguard responded to separate emergencies last weekend.

The rescue team assisted an injured walker, while members of the Coastguard were in Ardglass to help an injured crew member on a fishing vessel.

Mountain rescue volunteers went to the assistance of a walker on Sunday afternoon after they fell while descending Slieve Meelbeg.

The injured walker was located high up within the Happy Valley, where he was assessed and treated for a serious leg injury. 

Once stable, the casualty was evacuated by stretcher down the Valley to team vehicles and onward transfer to a car park and handed over to Ambulance Service for further treatment and onward transfer to hospital. 

A total of 10 team members who responded to the emergency call shortly after noon were stood down just after 4.45pm.

In the wake of the incident, the rescue team has issued a reminder that anyone who gets into difficulty in the mountains should always dial 999 and ask for the police or mountain rescue.

Volunteers say when the call has been made, it’s absolutely essential people keep their phone free so that a rescue coordinator can call them back to confirm and expand on information. 

The rescued team said providing information quickly is essential, otherwise the emergency response could be delayed.

Last Saturday morning, Newcastle Coastguard members were tasked to Ardglass harbour to meet a fishing vessel with an injured crew member on board who had suffered a head injury while at sea.

The Coastguard provided casualty care before the crew member was transferred for treatment in hospital.