Coastguard describes “treacherous recovery” of pensioner’s body after quicksand tragedy at Solway Firth

HM Coastguard Senior Coastal Operations Officer, Stewart Bryden, has described the challenging recovery mission of a woman’s body trapped in quicksand at the Solway Firth in Dumfries and Galloway. The incident unfolded when Shona Campbell encountered difficulties in the Cummertrees and Powfoot area, prompting a full-scale search by the Coastguard.

After an extensive search effort, a body was discovered the following evening, although formal identification is pending, the police have notified Campbell’s family. Bryden highlighted the complexities of the recovery operation, emphasizing the hazardous conditions faced by rescue teams. The treacherous nature of quicksand and the dwindling light posed significant challenges, requiring innovative approaches for retrieval.

The Coastguard, alongside Nith Rescue, mountain rescue teams, police, and fire services, collaborated seamlessly in a multi-agency operation. Despite the outcome not being the desired one, Bryden commended the collective effort in successfully locating and recovering the woman’s body, providing closure for her family.

Campbell, a 74-year-old visitor at West Moss-side Caravan Park, found herself stuck in quicksand during an evening walk with her dog, shortly before high tide. The subsequent search and recovery operation involved various emergency services and volunteers, demonstrating dedication and vigilance in the face of adversity.

The Solway Firth region is known for its hazardous mudflats and fast tidal movements, underscoring the need for caution and awareness when navigating the area. Recent initiatives, such as the use of satellite imagery to identify safe routes for rescue operations, aim to enhance safety measures along the coastline.

As Bryden highlighted the unforgiving nature of the Solway, he advised visitors to exercise caution and communicate their whereabouts when exploring the area. The collaborative efforts of emergency response teams and the ongoing commitment to improving safety protocols serve as vital components in safeguarding individuals in coastal environments.