Woman with Broken Ankle Saved by Fowey RNLI & Coastguard Volunteers

In a remarkable display of teamwork, Fowey RNLI volunteers assisted in the rescue of a woman with a suspected broken ankle on Saturday, 27th July.

The woman was injured south of the monument on the Hall Walk at Penleath Point above Fowey Harbour, sparking a coordinated response from multiple emergency services.

Emergency Call and Quick Response

At 3.30pm, Falmouth Coastguard alerted Fowey lifeboat station, requesting the assembly of the crew to potentially aid the injured woman. An ambulance, along with the St Austell and Polruan coastguard teams, were already en route. However, due to challenging access to the scene, the decision was made to launch Fowey’s inshore lifeboat.

On-Scene Care and Coordination

Upon arrival at the scene at 4pm, two RNLI crew members went ashore to provide immediate care and administer pain relief to the casualty. A Fowey Harbour Patrol staff member was already present, offering initial assistance. At 4.40pm, the coastguard teams and paramedics reached the injured woman.

Safe Evacuation and Transfer

Following a thorough assessment by paramedics, it was determined that the best evacuation route was along the Hall Walk to Bodinnick. With the support of two Fowey lifeboat crew members, the teams carefully transported the woman. By 5.30pm, she was successfully moved from the scene, reaching the ambulance at Bodinnick by 6.20pm.

Seamless Operation

The operation concluded with the inshore lifeboat helm retrieving the two RNLI crew members from Bodinnick slipway at 6.30pm, returning them to the station. This incident highlighted the exceptional coordination and cooperation between Fowey RNLI, the coastguard teams, the ambulance service, and Fowey Harbour Patrol.

The collaborative effort ensured the safe and swift rescue of the injured woman, showcasing the dedication and skill of all involved.

Photo: Fowey’s RNLI crew nearing the scene – Credit: Fowey RNLI