UPDATED: FALL FROM SEA WALL SEES AIR AMBULANCE CALLED TO SANDOWN

A suspected spinal injury sustained after a fall from the sea wall at Sandown has led to the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance being scrambled to Sandown this morning (Wednesday). The pedestrian was walking along the pavement near the Driftwood Beach Bar – opposite Fort Street – at around 10:20 when they fell approximately 6ft onto the beach below. Flying medics have touched down in Sandham Gardens just metres from the scene of the accident, with doctors and paramedics now providing enhanced care to the female casualty. The Isle of Wight Ambulance Service has an ambulance crew, enhanced care paramedic and an operational commander on scene. The assistance of HM Coastguard has also been called upon with teams from Bembridge and Ventnor assisting in stretchering the woman off the beach and into an awaiting ambulance. UPDATE @ 11:50 – Following an initial assessment, the decision has been taken to fly the woman directly to the Major Trauma Centre at Southampton, where she will receive specialist care. Island Echo understands that the casualty – an holidaymaker – accidentally stepped back off the wall whilst taking a photograph of her car registration to assist in paying for parking. The incident is now drawing to a close.