A multi-agency rescue operation is underway to free at least 2 people stuck in the mud at Compton this evening (Tuesday).
It was at around 16:10 that HM Coastguard was alerted to the plight of individuals stuck around halfway between Hanover Point and Compton Farm, on the West Wight coast.
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team and Needles Coastguard Rescue Team responded, locating the casualties amid fading light and plummeting temperatures.
However, the situation has now called for additional resource with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service requested to assist.
The fire service has mobilised 2 appliances from Freshwater and Newport, as well as the Rescue Support Vehicle from Newport, to assist blue light colleagues.
Firefighters are assisting at the scene of the rescue, as well as establishing lighting for the casualty evacuation route.
UPDATE @ 18:35 – 2 casualties have been successfully freed from their predicament.
1 male has been led to safety, with the second casualty stretchered along the beach and up the stairs to Hanover Point.
Although the fire service have now stood down from the incident, HM Coastguard remains on scene providing ongoing casualty care – but the immediate danger is over.
HIWFRS Safety Warning: Stay Safe Around Mud
Mud can be hazardous and deceptive. Always follow local warning signs, stick to marked paths, and avoid unknown areas especially if you’re alone. Mud may appear solid but can be dangerously soft.
• Stay on safe routes
• Carry a mobile phone
• Stay aware of your surroundings
\If you or someone else becomes trapped, call 999 immediately – do not attempt a rescue yourself.
Well done to the rescue team! What a pair of idiots do they not know how dangerous it can be? Obviously not?
What a waste of Emergency services time.
Well done, rescuers!
What a strange story. Stuck in mud on a coastal path and Coastguards and fire fighters with tenders needed to rescue them? I walk this area and paths all the time and, even at 82, don’t reckon I would need a phalanx of emergency people and appliances to rescue me. More info, please!
Where does it say Coastal Path..?? The lads were down by the beach…no doubt was grey slipper, and wet…
Now give these utter pilchards the bill,in the dark in storm season,well done,gotta be dopey “walkers”
Here Here, this rescue must have cost thousands of pounds.
What utter knob-heads..
The island is full of them.