Climber falls from cliffs

Rescue services rushed to the scene

A major emergency operation was launched last night after a climber fell from a cliff at a Fife beach.

The ambulance service, coastguard, police and fire and rescue service were deployed to Silver Sands in Aberdour at around 6.45pm.

The police had not confirmed the climber’s condition at the time of going to press.

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: “Police in Fife were called to the area of Hawkcraig area, Silver Sands beach in Aberdour around 6.45pm on Tuesday, July 18 following a report that a climber had fallen from the cliffs.

“Emergency services remain in attendance and further updates will be provided when possible.”

An eyewitness described the area as busy with people enjoying the warm evening despite the numerous emergency crews in attendance.

He said: “When I passed the area there were two fire engines in the Hawkcraig car park and then the coast guard arrived.

“There was also a police car near Room With a View and around the back of Silver Sands there were another five police vehicles,” said the man.

“A police officer was blocking off access to the cliff and a couple of other officers were on the cliff having a look at something.

“This is a well-known climbing area and there have been a few falls in the past.”

Hawkcraig is a popular spot for climbers and there have been accidents there in the past.

The area where the incident occurred was cordoned off by police.

Pictures: Steve MacDougall and David Wardle.