Stafford firefighter seriously injured in rope training incident
A firefighter has been left with "life-changing" injuries after an incident during a rope training exercise.
The firefighter was one of two from Stafford Fire Station who were injured during a rescue exercise at a former quarry in Derbyshire.
Both were taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital but the second has since been discharged with minor injuries.
The incident happened on Sunday at Harpur Hill, a village near Buxton where there is a disused quarry with steep cliff faces which are regularly used by climbers.
Interactive map of the area:
The exact nature of the incident is not yet known.
Becci Bryant, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service's chief fire officer, said: “Everyone across Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is shocked and saddened by this incident and our thoughts remain with our injured colleagues and their families and friends at this difficult time and we would ask that their privacy is respected.
"We are working to support them and other colleagues who have been affected by this.”
The Health and Safety Executive has been informed and Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service will undertake an independent investigation into the circumstances around the incident.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime, Matthew Ellis said: “My thoughts are with the firefighters and their families at this difficult time.
“The job that firefighters do on behalf of us all is inherently dangerous and this incident brings that home to us all.
“An independent investigation is underway and will report as soon as possible. In the meantime, support for the firefighters and their families is the main priority.”
A HSE spokesman said: “HSE has been notified of this incident. At this very early stage, we are unable to comment further.”
An East Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman added: “We received a call at 12.06pm on September 29 to Hoffman Quarry in Buxton.
"The caller reported that there was a medical emergency. We sent a medical first responder and three ambulances. Two patients were taken to North Staffordshire Royal Infirmary via ambulances.”
