Teenager Rescued After Dangerous 130ft Cliff Climb in Shetland
HM Coastguard pulled off a dramatic rescue last night after a teenager got stuck halfway up a 130ft cliff in Fethaland, Shetland. The harrowing ordeal began around 9.45pm when a friend called emergency services, sparking a lengthy night operation.
Stuck on the Cliff as Night Falls
The pair had been walking along the cliffs earlier in the afternoon and decided to scale down the sheer rock face. One managed to climb back up, but the other was trapped. By the time help arrived, the stranded teen had been stuck for two hours with darkness creeping in and the tide rising.
High-Stakes Rescue in Tough Conditions
- Lerwick and Hillswick Coastguard teams, Aith Lifeboat, and a HM Coastguard helicopter from Sumburgh were all scrambled.
- The helicopter winch operation was halted due to dangerous turbulence and close cliff proximity.
- Thanks to excellent communication, rescuers confirmed the teen was uninjured but cold and drenched.
- Teams used powerful night lights from the helicopter and lifeboat to illuminate the cliff during the painstaking four-hour rope rescue.
Once lifted to safety, the teen – mildly hypothermic from exposure – was flown to a waiting ambulance at Tingwall Airport.
Experts Praise Teamwork and Training
“This incident was a prime example of team working at its best,” said HM Coastguard Incident Commander Dave Sweeney. “The conditions for rope rescue were very challenging, but with the help of the Sumburgh helicopter, Aith Lifeboat, and our skilled Rescue Teams, Cliff Technician Jamie Newlands safely brought the casualty to the top.”
Helicopter Captain Martin Naylor called it “one of the most difficult rescues we’ve seen for a while.” He praised the cliff rescue teams for their “deeply impressive and safe recovery,” thanks to rigorous training led by Dave Sweeney and Alex Dodge.
Cliff Safety: Don’t Take Risks
- Always wear sturdy shoes and check weather and tidal forecasts before coastal walks.
- Carry a fully charged mobile and tell someone your plans.
- Stick to designated paths and follow warning signs.
- Never climb cliffs unless properly trained and equipped.
- If you or someone else is in trouble, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard immediately.
This rescue highlights the dangers of coastal cliffs and the bravery of Shetland’s rescue crews working through the night to save lives.
