UPDATED: A rescue operation is underway tonight (Wednesday) to assist a cow that has fallen around 30ft over the cliff edge at Whale Chine in the West Wight.
Three appliances from the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, including two Rescue units from Newport Fire Station, are currently in attendance alongside Coastguard teams near to Isle of Wight Pearl on Military Road, where a cow has gone over the cliff edge falling around 30ft to the beach below.
Veterinary specialists are also attending the scene to assist in the rescue of the farm animal.
Emergency crews were alerted to the incident at around 22:40.
UPDATE THURSDAY @ 07:35: The cow at the center of last night’s operation has been successfully led to safety and is said to be in a positive condition this morning.
The young animal was taken along the beach to Grange Chine where a local vet and farmer were waiting to assess the distressed cow, before it was taken to fields owned by Grange Farm to stay overnight suffering from just a few cuts and bruises.
During the incident it was reported that further cows were loose near to the carriageway, prompting HM Coastguard Rescue Teams from The Needles and Ventnor to round up around 30 cows and lead them to a place of safety with the assistance of the farmer, Mr Fisk.
It was initially reported by emergency services that the incident occurred at Whale Chine, however it has now been confirmed that the incident took place at Chilton Chine.
UPDATE THURSDAY @ 09:00 – Despite enduring quite a shocking experience overnight, the young cow is said to be happily enjoying the Island’s sunshine and mingling close to holidaymakers this morning.
This photograph, supplied by Grange Farm, shows the uninjured animal grazing in the fields.
Photograph by Shane Thornton Photography.
