Yesterday afternoon at approximately 15:20 both the the Swanage and St Albans HMCoastguard Cliff teams were tasked to a report of a person who had become stuck in a sea cave under Tilly Whim Caves. Given the nature of the tasking both the Swanage Lifeboats and Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 106 who were already at the scene were unable to prosecute a rescue.
On arrival the cliff teams were met by the helicopter winch-man who explained the tasking. Entry to the cave was either underwater, or though a narrow blowhole at the top of the cave.
A full cliff rescue set up was put in place and risk assessments conducted as to the severity of the rescue operation and whether a rescue was viable through the blow hole. The rescue was considered to be at the very edge of our technical capability.
With the light failing and high tide approaching a final risk assessment was undertaken by the officer in charge and decision made to deploy. The St Albans' Cliff Technician showed exceptional courage and entered the cave through the blow hole.
On entering the cave it became apparent that the casualty had sadly succumbed. The difficult decision was taken that the recovery of the body at that point was too dangerous to undertake. The teams then stood down.
Naturally at this time the team's thoughts are with the person's family and friends.
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