Cliff jumpers spark rescue during storm

Cliff jumpers spark rescue during storm

30 November 2011

A PARTY of cliff jumpers got into difficulty off the Ballyhornan coast on Saturday sparking a major rescue operation.

A helicopter, two lifeboats and a Coastguard shore team were despatched to the cliffs to the south of Ballyhornan at 11am when a member of the public reported three members of the seven-strong group were in difficulties in the water.

A force seven southerly gale was blowing at the time, there was a three to four metre swell at sea and large waves were beating onto the shore.

Two of the swimmers managed to scramble to safety, although one suffered badly cut hands, but the third remained in the water for around 20 minutes before a line was thrown to him and he was pulled to safety.

All members of the group had reached safety before the helicopter and shore team arrived, although Portaferry lifeboat had arrived on scene and stood by until the final swimmer was ashore.

The helicopter then landed in Ballyhornan and a paramedic checked out the swimmer who had been in the water for the longest period. 

He eventually went to the Downe Hospital, along with the man who had cut his hands, to be checked out.

The group was part of an planned outing organised by the Irish C adventure group from Portrush. As well as an instructor there were four men and two women from Newry and Belfast.

A Coastguard spokesman said the weather conditions on Saturday morning were “especially difficult” for the lifeboats and helicopter.

“Both lifeboats, especially the open lifeboat from Portaferry, faced treacherous conditions with strong southerly winds and a large swell out at sea,” he said.

“The helicopter which travelled up from Dublin, had to content with the gusting winds and had a winchman been required it could have been a very dangerous situation,” he added.

The spokesman said cliff jumping has become a popular activity all along the Northern Ireland coast but he appealed for participants to give the sea the utmost respect when planning such events.

“We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun but we would ask people engaging in any seaborne activity or on the shore to take particular notice of the weather conditions,” he said.

“If they are in any doubt at all then discretion should be exercised. When people get into trouble at sea it can very quickly lead to tragedy.”

Portaferry Lifeboat Operations Manager, Brian Bailie, described the potential rescue as “challenging” which necessitated the launching of the larger Newcastle lifeboat.

“The casualties fortunately had all of the right coasteering equipment, including wet suits, buoyancy aids and helmets but the conditions proved too challenging for them,” said Mr. Bailie.

“We would encourage anyone engaging in these types of outdoor pursuits to keep their equipment in excellent condition and to check weather forecasts before leaving home to help ensure their day out remains enjoyable and safe,” he added.