A dramatic rescue unfolded off the coast of Ilfracombe after a pet dog plunged from a cliff and became trapped among rocks surrounded by rough waves.
The black Labrador, named Bailey, reportedly slipped out of her collar after being startled by another dog during a walk with her owners along a coastal path last Friday.
According to reports, Bailey fell around 60 feet into the sea below but miraculously survived before managing to climb onto nearby rocks.
However, the powerful waves left the frightened dog stranded and unable to escape on her own.
Her owner, Chris Carter, immediately alerted emergency services after witnessing the terrifying fall.
Coastguards initially attempted to reach Bailey from the cliff above, but dangerous terrain and crashing waves made access impossible.
A rescue crew from Royal National Lifeboat Institution later launched an inshore lifeboat and navigated as close as possible to the rocks.
Lifeboat crew member Richard Woolmer then entered the rough sea and swam towards the stranded Labrador while the remaining crew carefully kept the boat away from the rocks.
Witnesses watching from the cliff above, including Bailey’s anxious owners, reportedly cheered as the rescuer carefully reached the dog and carried her back through the choppy waters.
Both Bailey and Richard were later pulled safely onto the lifeboat before returning to shore.
The relieved dog was reunited with her family shortly afterwards.
Following the rescue, Bailey was reportedly taken to a nearby restaurant and treated to slices of toast as she recovered from the ordeal.
Richard, a 51-year-old self-employed builder who owns two Labradors himself, said he volunteered for the rescue because he felt confident handling dogs.
“I heard her bark and knew I had to go get her,” he said.
Despite the rough conditions and dangerous rocks, Richard explained he trusted his crew completely and relied on his sea swimming experience to safely reach the animal.
According to the RNLI, the rescue took place at around 4pm last Friday.
RNLI representatives later reminded the public not to risk their own safety when trying to rescue pets or people in dangerous coastal situations.
Instead, they advised calling emergency services immediately and asking for the Coastguard.
