A large scale search to find persons feared to be trapped under a cliff fall in Shanklin has prompted another reminder from HM Coastguard for Islanders to stay away from cliffs whilst undertaking daily exercise.
As first reported by Island Echo, emergency services were called to Shanklin Esplanade yesterday evening (Saturday) following a cliff fall between Shanklin and Luccombe. Concerns were raised that a number of people may have become trapped under hundreds of tonnes of rock.
8 people and a dog were eventually transferred to safety by Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat. Thankfully, no one is thought to have been injured – but more by luck than judgement.
HM Coastguard are advising that those undertaking a walk as part of their permitted daily exercise stay away from cliffs around the Island, particularly near Luccombe.
WATCH: Station Officer James Potter of Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team issues advice
https://www.facebook.com/IslandEcho/videos/215259749764379/
David Hurden, Senior Maritime Operations Officer for HM Coastguard, has said:
“There is nothing to suggest these two separate groups were breaking lockdown rules. They were socially distancing from each other on a walk near to their homes.
Article continues below this advertisement “We’re thankful that no-one has been injured in the incident and that people did the right thing by calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard”.
A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary has said:
“As a result of the collapse, access to the beach from Luccombe Bay is not safe for the public.
“If you are out on your daily exercise please AVOID this area at all costs.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding”.
What a gaggle of Richard Edwards!! Wasting emergency resources in this way. The 8 should be penalised or find a sum to compensate for their irresponsible actions.
Not as if there had been no warnings beforehand about this area.
Shut up you idiot
Read the article they were social distancing and near home, people do live out that way. Idiot
There needs to be plenty of warning signs put up and cordoning where at all possible. These incidents happen from time to time in known locations (particularly Ventnor, Shanklin/Sandown and Culver), but twice in a short space of time signifies a higher risk. It is not enough to assume everyone reads the Island Echo or other local news/radio. You have to allow for ignorance (and of course stupidity) I’m afraid.
Too right. Wrong place wrong time. Unless well signed people don’t always read local news. They were following guidelines just in the wrong place.
DFL’S going fo a stroll
Fine the bastards wasting public money.