A MAJOR rescue operation was launched after a kayaker got into difficulties on the River Tees.
At about 2.30m on Saturday, Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue team was called out by the ambulance service to help the injured kayaker on the river near Cotherstone.
Rescue team spokesman Scott Bisset said: “The kayaker was with a group when he capsized. As he endeavoured to swim out he hit his head on a rock causing numbness to his head and back. He was wearing helmet and safety gear.”
His fellow paddlers immediately assisted him to the bankside where they kept him warm until help arrived.
“On arrival of the first team members, it was quickly established that due to the steep, wooded ground, this was going to be a difficult evacuation and so requested the attendance of a helicopter equipped with a winch,” added Mr Bisset.
Two ambulance paramedics arrived and took over the patient care. The Hazard Area Rescue Team also attended the scene.
Mr Bisset said: “Meanwhile the team set up a line rig to pull the stretcher up the bank. Just after 4pm the Coastguard helicopter arrived and the winch man was lowered to discuss the method of evacuation whilst the aircraft left to refuel.
“The casualty was safely packaged on a mountain rescue stretcher and, with the assistance of all present, was dragged up the steep, muddy ground to an area clear of overhanging trees where the helicopter was able to winch him aboard. By the time helicopter left it was around 7pm and obviously dark. We have since received news that the casualty has no serious injuries and should make a full and speedy recovery.”
