A MOUNTAIN biker was left “seriously injured” following an incident in woodland near St Asaph last night (May 7).
The casualty was taken to hospital after North Wales Police, Wales Air Ambulance, the Welsh Ambulance Service and the Coastguard all attended the incident at about 10pm yesterday.
North East Wales Search and Rescue said: “We had our own ‘Big Help Out’ last night, with our volunteers assisting a seriously injured mountain biker.
“Shortly before 10pm on Sunday night, we were contacted by North Wales Police to assist with the search for an overdue mountain biker, thought to be in woodland north of Rhuallt, near St. Asaph.
“As the first team members arrived, news was received that family members of the casualty had located him deep in the woodland on steep ground.
“He had been running live tracking software on his phone, which ultimately avoided what would have been a protracted search. He had sustained significant injuries as a result of crashing his bike.
“Two team members were quickly dispatched to gain a better understanding of the situation and provide initial casualty care.
“Further team members were then able to be driven by Land Rover to near the accident site. They were then joined by a land ambulance crew.”
Due to the nature of the biker’s injuries and the inaccessible location where he was found, both an air ambulance and a Coastguard helicopter were dispatched.
The Wales Air Ambulance team were transported from their helicopter to the casualty site and carried out a detailed patient assessment.
The casualty was then carried on a stretcher up the steep bike track.
North East Wales Search and Rescue added: “The casualty was then driven to the waiting Coastguard helicopter for transport to hospital and the casualty's family members were returned to their vehicle.
“Team members arrived back at base shortly before 3am after this significant and complex multi-agency response.
“We wish the casualty well for their recovery.”
Attempts have been made to contact North Wales Police, Wales Air Ambulance, and the Welsh Ambulance Service for further comment.
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