By Lisa Ramsden
A calf was rescued from the shoreline at the Bloody Bridge, south of Newcastle, yesterday (Tuesday). A major rescue operation swung into place within minutes of the alarm being raised, with specialist large animal rescue teams amongst those deployed.
The young animal, which had fallen over a cliff edge, was slowly brought back to the harbour, through three miles of water, thanks to Newcastle RNLI and the NI Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS). The near four-hour rescue commenced just after 8.30am when it was ascertained the calf, reported to weigh in the region of 200kgs, was trapped and unable to get itself back to a safe area.
Two crews from Newcastle Fire Station, including its Specialist Animal Rescue Team, responded, in addition to colleagues from Belfast, Kilkeel and Rathfriland. Newcastle and Kilkeel Coastguard teams were also deployed.
Speaking after the multi-agency incident, Newcastle Lifeboat Station helm, Andrew Lynas, said the young animal was unable to self-rescue due to the location and terrain. Having initially been tasked to provide safety cover for those working on the rocky terrain, it was quickly ascertained the boat and its crew would play a vital role in the calf’s rescue.
Having liaised with the NIFRS, it was decided the best, and safest, option was to take the distressed animal back to Newcastle Harbour – by sea! Working closely with the fire service, a vet and its owner, a plan was put in place to tow the animal slowly alongside the inshore lifeboat back to the beach, adjacent to the harbour, where it could be assessed by the vet and returned to the farmer’s care.
The calf was tired and exhausted from its ordeal, but otherwise in good health. Speaking following the call-out, which he described as “a challenging rescue,” Andrew said: “This was a challenging rescue given what was an awkward spot to reach, but thanks to great teamwork from all emergency services involved, we were able to get the animal back on dry land safely and into the care of the farmer and vet.”
He added: “When needed, we are always happy to assist animals at risk and prevent farmers or pet owners from themselves getting into danger when trying to help their animal. If your animal does get into difficulty, goes into the water or gets stuck in mud or on rocks, don’t go in after them. Move to a place they can reach safely and call them. If you’re worried about your animal, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
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