A MAN injured from falling down a riverbank was rescued by fire crews before being handed into the care of paramedics.

Winchester and Redbridge crews were called to rescue an injured man who had fallen down a riverbank in Garnier Road in Winchester shortly after 1pm on Saturday, December 3.

The individual fell approximately five metres.

Firefighters saved the casualty by using safe working at height equipment. Redbridge was called as it has specialist rescue equipment on one of its fire engines.

A spokesperson said: “Firefighters used rope equipment to rescue the casualty who was then passed into the care of South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) paramedics. 

“Hampshire and Isle of Wight Rescue Service returned to the station following the stop message shortly before 3pm.”

SCAS has been contacted for more information.

The presence of fire engines and ambulances stirred up conversation on Facebook group Winchester Rants with commenters hoping the emergency workers were there for training.