Mountain rescue crews have issued a warning after a young adult and a child were rushed to hospital with minor injuries following a fall at a popular beauty spot in Oldham.
Oldham Mountain Rescue Team (OMRT) were called to the Greenfield Waterfall on the ‘Trinnacle Trail’ near Dove Stone Reservoir on Wednesday (April 21) following reports of the incident. 21 members of crew were dispatched to the scene, who were able to establish that the two casualties had slipped and fallen whilst descending Birchen Clough.
Just last week, mountain rescue crews issued a warning over the Trinnacle Trail, describing it as being ‘treacherous’ and challenging. Despite this, the route - which focuses around the Trinnacle, a three-pronged gritstone formation overlooking the Greenfield Valley - remains hugely popular with walkers.
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The Mountain Rescue Team said both casualties admitted they had decided to undergo the walk without being aware of how difficult the route can be. Both casualties were treated at the scene by team members before being transported to a local hospital having suffered minor injuries. Crews were at the scene for two hours.
A spokesperson for OMRT said: “It transpired that the family had been out walking the ‘Trinnacle Trail’ after seeing it advertised in the media. Unfortunately, the casualties slipped and fell whilst descending Birchen Clough. By their own admission they did not appreciate how challenging the route can be in places and would not have undertaken the route if they had known.”
OMRT has now issued a further warning to those considering undergoing the trail by asking people to check the route in advance, being aware of their capabilities and bringing appropriate gear and equipment.
The spokesperson added: “Whilst we always encourage people to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, it is important that they understand the potential risks that may be encountered; something that the various media outlets often fail to mention.
“Although the ‘Trinnacle Trail’ may be advertised as one of the best walks in the UK, it must be understood there are some parts that are more than a walk: the section up Birchen Clough past ‘Greenfield Waterfall’ is a scramble that often requires the use of hands and feet to make progress up rocky steps.
“If you are planning on venturing into the hills, a little preparation will help ensure an enjoyable day. If the worst does happen and you need emergency assistance in the hills, dial 999, ask for Police and Mountain Rescue. When you have summoned help, stay where you are and keep warm until assistance does arrive.
“We wish both casualties a full and speedy recovery and an enjoyable end to their holiday. As a rescue service we are happy to assist anyone in distress.”
