Dorset – A cockapoo named Luna survived a harrowing 11-hour stranding 50 meters down a cliff at Thorncombe Beacon near Bridport before multi-agency teams winched her to safety.
Sudden Plunge Ignites Rescue Efforts
Sudden Plunge Ignites Rescue Efforts (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
The incident unfolded on Thursday afternoon when Luna tumbled over the edge of the 500ft cliff just before 5pm. Owners spotted the dog on a narrow ledge roughly 164ft below the clifftop at Thorncombe Beacon, part of the Jurassic Coast between Eype and Seatown.
Coastguard teams from nearby stations mobilized immediately. Firefighters joined soon after. A rope technician descended toward Luna, but the frightened pet darted along the ledge, evading capture. Rescuers tried various methods to coax her back throughout the evening.
Nightfall Forces Temporary Halt
Darkness descended quickly, complicating the operation further. Deteriorating weather added to the challenges at the clifftop.
Luna’s reluctance to approach rescuers persisted. Teams assessed the risks and decided to pause until daylight. The decision ensured safety for both the dog and personnel. Over 40 individuals had already committed to the effort across the two days.
Coastguard spokesman noted the tough conditions: “Numerous things were tried to get her to come back, but with the weather deteriorating… the decision was made to abandon the attempt.”
Plans formed to resume at first light if Luna remained visible or audible. Friday morning brought renewed determination from the assembled crews.
Pincer Strategy Secures Dramatic Victory
Teams executed a coordinated pincer movement, deploying rope rescue specialists from both sides of Luna’s position.
Incident commanders from West Bay Coastguard, Bridport Fire Station, and technical leads devised the plan meticulously.
- Beer Coastguard Rescue Team provided key rope technicians.
- West Bay Coastguard handled the successful capture.
- Lyme Regis Coastguard offered additional support.
- Bridport and Weymouth Fire Stations supplied fire crews and technical rescue.
Though Luna initially moved along the cliff in the opposite direction, persistence prevailed.
A West Bay rope technician tempted her into an animal rescue bag. She was then winched safely to the top unharmed.
Seamless Collaboration Delivers Happy Reunion
Bridport Fire Station praised the outcome: “This was an excellent example of multi-agency collaboration, with rescue services working seamlessly together.”
Luna reunited with her relieved owners, showing no obvious injuries.
The operation highlighted the demands of such rescues in rugged terrain. More than 11 hours elapsed from alert to success.
Specialist equipment proved crucial throughout.
Key Takeaways
- Keep dogs on leads near cliff edges to prevent similar incidents.
- Multi-agency teamwork turns high-risk rescues into successes.
- Patience and planning overcome challenges like weather and animal behavior.
This rescue underscored the dedication of emergency services on Dorset’s dramatic coastline. Luna’s survival serves as a reminder of nature’s perils and human resolve. What do you think about this heartwarming effort? Tell us in the comments.
