Press Notice No: 91
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Posted 19:58 GMT

A scout group has been recovered from marshland in Itchen Valley Country Park near Southampton this afternoon.

Coastguard rescue team meet helicopter at landing site

Solent Coastguard provided support to Hampshire Fire and Rescue in response to a report of 16 scouts and three scout leaders who were stuck in mud in Itchen Valley Country Park.

Solent Coastguard sent both Hillhead and Portsmouth Coastguard Rescue Teams which are mud rescue trained and equipped, as well as the coastguard rescue helicopter from Solent. Hampshire Fire and Rescue and Hampshire Police were also in attendance.

The coastguard rescue helicopter located the group between areas of mud near the river. The coastguard rescue helicopter was able to land on a stable area and then lifted the group to dry land. Members of Hillhead and Portsmouth Coastguard Rescue Teams secured the landing site for the helicopter and all members of the group are reported to be safe and well.

-Ends-
Notes to Editors

Picture are available on request courtesy of Hampshire Fire and Rescue.

1. The MCA is a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities. Sea Vision promotes the importance and economic value of the sector and works to highlight the exciting range of activities and career opportunities available to young people within the UK growing maritime sector. www.seavisionuk.org

2. Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained, check weather and tides, wear a lifejacket, avoid alcohol and keep in touch

3. Follow us on Twitter. Find us at MCA_media


Posted By: Julia Gosling

For further details contact:
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency Press Office
023 8032 9401