Three hikers were stranded halfway down a steep cliff near Fairlight yesterday, but a dramatic HM Coastguard rescue brought them to safety just before nightfall.
Race Against the Dying Light
The emergency call came in just before 5pm, sparking a swift response from HM Coastguard teams in Bexhill, Hastings, and Rye Bay. With fading light and dropping visibility, rescuers launched a daring rope rescue to reach the stranded trio.
In a tense operation, the teams pulled all three to safety—the last one hauled up seconds before complete darkness. Despite the cold, all were in good spirits and quickly wrapped in blankets and jackets while being given warm drinks.
Coastguard Hails Heroic Teamwork
The Coastguard praised the rescue as a flawless example of teamwork, preventing what could have turned into a fatal accident on the rugged cliffs.
Coastguard Warns of Cliffside Dangers
With chilly evenings and shorter days ahead, the Coastguard urges cliff walkers to:
- Plan their trips carefully
- Allow plenty of time to return
- Keep a safe distance from cliff edges
“Temperatures drop rapidly after sunset, making conditions dangerous,” warned a Coastguard spokesperson.
