Scots Woman Airlifted After Cliff Fall Bird Watching in Yorkshire

A woman from Scotland fell off a cliff in Yorkshire. Gillian, age 66, was birdwatching when it happened. She was on vacation with her husband and friends. They walked at Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve. It’s a popular spot for watching birds.

Gillian walked on a narrow, muddy path. She lost her footing and slipped. Gillian landed hard and felt leg pain. She could not move and was exposed. Her husband quickly called 999 for help.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance and HM Coastguard responded. The helicopter flew fast to the east coast. The Air Ambulance arrived first. Coastguard crews followed quickly.

The YAA team checked Gillian’s injuries. They worried when her foot lost feeling. This could mean blood flow or nerve damage issues. They needed to straighten her ankle at once.

They gave Gillian ketamine, gas, and air. Then, they flew her to a hospital nearby. The helicopter trip took only seven minutes. Doctors found a complex ankle fracture. She needed surgery to fix it.

Surgeons used one plate and seven screws. They fixed her ankle with these tools. Gillian is now recovering from surgery. She is doing physical therapy. Doctors think she will heal in months.

Gillian remembers the scary fall well. She looked forward to seeing puffins. She never thought this trip would end this way. The helicopter arrival brought relief for her.

Gillian deeply appreciates the YAA team. She values everyone who helped her that day a lot. Their skills and care made a big difference. She will never forget them.