Hiker rescued after 100-foot cliff

Hiker rescued after 100-foot cliff

12 October 2016

A MAN was flown to hospital by a rescue helicopter after he plummeted 100 feet down a cliff face while walking in the Mournes last weekend.

The incident happened on the Glen River Valley side of Slieve Commedagh — one of the range’s highest peaks — shortly after 2pm on Sunday.

Walkers in the area went to the man’s assistance and provided him with warm clothing before members of the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team arrived to help. The Ambulance Service also sent a paramedic to the scene while the PSNI assisted with the operation.

Two members of the mountain rescue team were dispatched to assist the man’s partner who was stranded on a ledge above from where he had fallen.

A spokesman for the rescue team said other members stabilised the casualty and packaged him ready for evacuation by the Irish Coastguard’s 116 rescue helicopter, while his partner was led to safety.

The injured walker was taken to hospital in Belfast and treated for injuries to his ankles, legs and pelvis. His injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

A total of 14 Mourne Mountain Rescue Team members responded to the emergency and were stood down at 6.30pm.