Emergency services rushed to the York Minster this morning (Thursday 5th) after a man was taken seriously ill – at a shocking 40 metres above the ground.
Emergency services group crew arrived on the ground whilst requesting assistance from the UK Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC) after receiving a report that someone needed medical assistance at the top of York Minster Cathedral.
Confused York residents took to social media to report the obscure sight of a Coastal Birstow Helicopter winching the man from York Mister to the Air Ambulance. One twitter user reflected “Not everyday you get a helicopter flying over work to get to York Minster!”
Terrifying pic.twitter.com/H4fezlrYqv
— Alex Holmes (@ignorethecrane) October 5, 2017
A spokesperson for the Coastguard said “Due to the inaccessible nature of the steeple, the UK Coastguard search and rescue helicopter based at Humberside has been sent to assist with the medical evacuation.”
The steeple is just below the central tower, which is 72 meters tall and enclosed in a cage. There are regular tour guides up the tower each day that are popular with tourist from across the world.
York Minster tweeted:
Huge thanks to the emergency services for the swift response. Thanks to all for their support, patience & well wishes. We will pass these on
— York Minster (@York_Minster) October 5, 2017