Rescue helicopter’s ‘lucky’ assist for RNLI Kessock after call out to recover stranded casualties at Rosemarkie
Three casualties had to be winched to safety at Rosemarkie on Saturday morning after an HM Coastguard callout.
Lifeboat crews from RNLI Kessock responded to the call at 11.18am after the three individuals had been cut off by the tide.
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With conditions unsafe for the lifeboat to proceed, rescuing the casualties was deemed “too dangerous” – but in a fateful twist, the 151 rescue helicopter from HM Coastguard, Inverness, appeared above the boat to assist.
All three casualties were then winched to safety, along with the winchman, before lifeboat crews were stood down.
A spokesperson for RNLI Kessock said: “At 11.18am on Saturday March 29, HM Coastguard requested that Kessock lifeboat launch to assist three casualties who had been cut off by the tide in the Rosemarkie area.
“The exact location was unclear which meant an immediate launch was required.
“Our newly refurbished boat made way at speed with an all helm crew and arrived at the location to find the three casualties stuck on the rocks, also surrounded by rocks, which meant getting the lifeboat in to them was too dangerous.
“After several discussions and suggestions, as luck would have it, Rescue Helicopter 151 appeared above the boat and offered assistance.
“It was decided the safest course of action would be to winch the casualties aboard the helicopter and recover them that way.
“We stayed on scene until all the casualties and winch man were recovered safely then we were stood down.
“As always, we are grateful to the public for their continued support and would remind you if you see anyone in danger on or near the water to dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.”
