Paraglider rescued at Newhaven

The Coastguard was contacted on Sunday morning by the National Coastwatch Institute who called 999 reporting that a paraglider had been spotted colliding with the cliff at Newhaven and was hanging from the cliff by his chute.  Newhaven and Birling Gap Coastguard Rescue Teams attended and a Coastguard was lowered to the casualty and stabilised the paraglider before he was lowered with the Coastguard to the base of the cliffs.  Newhaven RNLI inshore lifeboat initially went to the base of the cliffs and was able to reassure the casualty that they should hang on and that they would be recovered.

After recovery the paraglider was checked by a paramedic from the ambulance service but despite being winded and suffering from shock was found not to have suffered any serious injuries. Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire Rescue service also assisted in the rescue. The casualty's chute was recovered by the Coastguard in order that no one attempted this later on.

If you see anyone in trouble on the cliffs call 999 for the Coastguard.

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