A cow was herded to safety from the bottom of the cliff at the most southerly point of the Isle of Wight this afternoon (Thursday).
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team, Needles Coastguard Rescue Team and Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service all responded to the scene at St Catherine’s Point.
Coastguards had originally been called to reports of a possible boat aground at Watershoot Bay at 10:52 this morning. With nothing of concern found, the search was stood down – but not before a member of the team spotted a cow at the base of the cliff to the east of St Catherine’s Lighthouse.
Through the National Trust, the farmer who owns the cow was contacted and travelled to the scene. Coastguards from the Ventnor and Needles teams assisted the farmer to the bottom of the cliff using their technical rope rescue skills so that the cow could be safely herded back to the top of the cliff to safety.
A fire appliance from Newport was also mobilised to the incident.
A spokesperson for HM Coastguard has said:
“We urge the public not to put themselves in any danger to rescue an animal. If you have any concerns, please contact the RSPCA who would respond to any welfare issues,
Article continues below this advertisement “Stay well back from cliff edges and do not attempt to climb up or down cliffs and if you do spot a person in trouble, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard”.
Well done guys, nice to see people can still help animals in trouble.
Is it normal for catle to graze near cliffs, I’m not a farmer, just wondering if its a common practice..
Of course. Wherever the grass grows.
Very moooving story.
AN UDDER TALE OF RESCUE MOOONY THANKS CHAPS
Maybe the farmer should erect some fencing, back from the cliff edge. Just sayin’
All good.But is this really headline news,even for the Isle of Wight?
Yes
Well, you read it, and commented upon such.