A teenager was successfully rescued after becoming trapped in mudflats at the bottom of Quay Lane, Gosport, prompting a swift multi-agency response on Saturday afternoon.
The incident, which occurred around midday, saw teams from Gosport Police, Portsmouth Coastguard Rescue Team, Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS), along with the Fire Service and Ambulance crews, rush to the scene to assist the stranded teen.
Emergency responders worked together seamlessly, with the Fire Service leading the extraction using specialized equipment and techniques to safely free the young man from the thick mud. Once rescued, the teenager received on-site medical attention before being reunited with his mother, who, according to police, humorously suggested he might need further medical care once home.
In a statement on social media, Gosport Police praised the coordinated efforts of the responding teams, saying, “We had Coastguards, Ambulance, Fire Service, and ourselves at the scene prepped and ready to go. To be honest, we felt a bit like a spare part for this one, but the Fire Service used their equipment and well-practiced skills to get the young man back to shore.”
The police also took the opportunity to issue a safety warning to the public, urging residents and visitors to avoid the mudflats in the area, which can be deceptively dangerous. “We hope this may serve as a warning to stay away from the mudflats,” the statement read.
The incident has been highlighted as a reminder of the critical work done by emergency services and the importance of taking caution around tidal areas. Gosport Police commended their “Blue Light” colleagues for their quick and efficient response, concluding their statement with, “Well done everyone!”
No serious injuries were reported, but the teenager is expected to receive further medical checks as a precaution.