Sea rescue after cyclist falls from Coast Road

Larne RNLI responded to an alert by Belfast Coastguard at 10.15 am.

Larne and Ballycastle Coastguard also rushed to the scene along with crew from the Fire and Rescue Service and ambulance service.

The inshore lifeboat crew went ashore to attend to the injured man.

The casualty was assessed by a doctor and paramedic from the ambulance service before transferring him from the beach via the inshore lifeboat.

A doctor and paramedic accompanied the injured man to Ballygally beach where he was transferred into the care of ambulance personnel and Coastguard team.

He was taken to hospital suffering from arm and head injuries and is believed to be in a stable condition.

Larne RNLI helm Pamela Leitch said: ”Due to the nature of the cyclist’s fall, the position for extraction was challenging via land and the best decision was to remove him from the beach side. We would like to wish the cyclist a speedy recovery following what must have been a frightening experience for him. Today’s call out was a great example of different agencies working well together to bring someone to safety.”

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Cllr Paul Reid has praised the efforts of the RNLI for acting quickly to rescue the cyclist.

Cllr. Reid said, “I would like to extend a huge thanks on behalf of council to all those involved in the rescue of this man.

“The RNLI crews from Ballycastle and Larne and the on-board medical teams responded quickly to ensure the individual’s safety and deserve much praise for their efforts.

“I would also like to pass on well wishes of a speedy recovery to the gentleman involved in the fall.

“This incident shows a great working relationship between our emergency services and a special thanks goes to those RNLI volunteers who risk their own safety for that of others.”