UPDATED WITH VIDEO: A young dog has tragically died after falling over 70ft off a cliff in Freshwater last night (Monday).
The Needles Coastguard Rescue Team and Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team were called to an area west of Tennyson Monument at 20:26 after the pet owner reported to HM Coastguard that her much-loved Great Dane cross German Shepherd had chased a rabbit over the cliff edge.
Coastguard Officers lowered themselves down the cliff face, where sadly the 1-year-old family pet was located, deceased. The dog’s collar was retrieved by the cliff rescue technician to give back to the owner, who was waiting at the top of the cliff.
Rocks were placed over the body of the animal as a mark of respect.
Tom Wyeth, Station Officer for The Needles Coastguard Rescue Team said:
“As sad as this situation is – and as a dog owner myself – please keep your dog on a lead if you are in the vicinity of a cliff edge.
“Call HM Coastguard via 999 if an emergency arises at a beach or cliff area”
UPDATE @ 07:57 – The pet’s owner, a resident of the West Wight, has this morning thanked both Coastguard Rescue Teams for their quick response and efforts.
This video shows the scene at Tennyson Down.
