COASTGUARDS in Cornwall were called out into zero-visibility mist this weekend after a woman found herself in difficulties on a cliff top.

Falmouth’s Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat Robina Nixon Chard was launched on Saturday evening, June 10, at the request of the UK Coastguard after they had received a call from a female in difficulties while walking the coast path near Gillan Beach. 

Porthoustock and Mullion Coastguard Rescue Teams were also tasked to assist but when on scene were unable to see or get to the casualty from the cliff top due to the very difficult terrain. Because of this, Falmouth's inshore lifeboat was requested and tasked to try and reach her from the shoreline below.

The lifeboat launched at 6:22pm into mist and almost zero visibility but fortunately, this had improved by the time they arrived on scene 13 minutes later where the visibility was good with a calm sea.

Falmouth Packet: The Coastguard search and rescue helicopter was requested by the Coastguard teamThe Coastguard search and rescue helicopter was requested by the Coastguard team (Image: Falmouth RNLI)

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The lifeboat crew located the casualty stuck in thick undergrowth approximately 30 to 40 metres above the shoreline. One crew member was placed ashore before the lifeboat collected two Coastguard team members from the beach east of the casualty’s position. However, it was still not possible to reach her due to the steepness of the cliff and the head-high vegetation.

The Coastguard search and rescue helicopter was requested by the Coastguard team to winch the casualty from the cliff side. Due to the difficult location, it took three attempts before she was successfully lifted off the cliff and handed over, uninjured, to members of the Coastguard Rescue Team back on the ground.

With the casualty safely recovered, the lifeboat was released from service and returned to station.

The Coastguard advise people walking the coast path to check for closures and diversions and to follow an inland route if necessary.