A WOMAN had to be rescued in a major operation by the emergency services from Glen Rushen Mines on Sunday afternoon after she fell and suffered suspected spinal injuries.

The incident happened when the woman fell whilst walking with her family and landed in a stream. The injuries were initially thought to be so serious that a helicopter was scrambled to assist, but it was eventually not needed.

Firefighters and paramedics were directed to the injured woman by off-road motorcyclists. They were also assisted by the Laxey Mines Research Group, who were working on a project in the area, and a local farmer.

The Fire and Rescue Service sent specialist personnel with rope rescue and water rescue training to assist ambulance crews 

On scene and following a medical assessment it was decided to request a helicopter as a precaution. The casualty is believed to have fallen approximately 3 to 5 metres whilst on a family walk, landing in a stream and was complaining of back pain whist slipping in and out of consciousness.

The terrain made work very difficult and communications via radio were often hampered by the steep sides of the glen blocking the radio signal.

A spokesman for the Fire and Rescue service said, “In the face of the challenge this ad hoc but effective team were still able to carry the casualty out of the glen and along a track to be placed in a Pinzguaer 6x6 vehicle which was guided by a local farmer to the roadway and then transferred to the ambulance which had been redeployed there by a firefighter.

“The RAF helicopter was stood down and the casualty removed to Noble’s hospital for assessment and treatment.

“This was a real team and community effort and the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service would like to thank the motorcyclists, the Laxey Mines Research Group and the farmer for their assistance.”

Photo: Bill Dale