Climber thanks rescuers after abseiling fall

A man who broke his back, shoulder and six ribs after falling while abseiling in the Yorkshire Dales has thanked the "fantastic" medics who rescued him.

Stephen Foxley, from Skipton, had been climbing at Slipstones Crag in May when he lost his footing, causing him to flip upside down in his harness.

The 75-year-old's wife called 999, fearing he had struck his back against the rockface, with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) and Mountain Rescue volunteers coming to his aid.

Mr Foxley, who has since recovered and returned to climbing, said he was "so thankful" for the help he received.

A YAA spokesperson said the job of rescuing Mr Foxley was made harder by the rocky terrain bordering the moorland where he was located.

YAA paramedic Becky, who came to his aid, said the casualty had "fallen from quite a height and access was extremely difficult".

"We had to carry heavy medical kits down a steep and dangerous path, making it clear that we couldn’t take him back up the same way”.

The rescue operation was also complicated by Mr Foxley's age.

“From 65 onwards, we tend to see much more severe injuries as bones become more fragile and the body’s resilience decreases," said Becky.

"Even when using the correct safety gear, the impact forces during a fall can cause significant damage.”

Mr Foxley praised the "fantastic" work of the paramedics, adding: "They managed my pain, kept me calm and got me to the hospital quickly."

The mountain rescuers were also "essential", he said.

"Without them, I don’t know how they would have gotten me off the crag.”

Mr Foxley was airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary hospital, where he spent eight days being treated for his injuries.

Despite doctors predicting his recovery could take up to a year, the seasoned climber said he had returned to his pastime after just four months following intensive physiotherapy.

Mr Foxley's rescue will feature on Quest programme Yorkshire Air 999.

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