Teenager Almost Buried Alive After Hole He Dug Collapsed On Cornish Beach

A beachgoer had to be rescued when he was almost buried alive after a hole he was digging collapsed on top of him.

The 18-year-old was enjoying himself on Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall, yesterday (1 July), when he suddenly became trapped beneath the sand.

Shocking photographs shared on social media show the teenager's friends, tourists and emergency services digging in a desperate attempt to save his life.

Luckily, they were able to get him free, and he was lifted out of the pit and onto a stretcher by fire crews.

He was checked over by medical staff and later allowed to go home.

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Newquay Response praised the efforts of the emergency workers who took part in the terrifying rescue attempt.

In a tweet, the unit wrote: "Part of an amazing #rescue today @ #Fistral #Newquay, a man dug a hole in the sand, which collapsed on him, friends and beach goers @NewquayCFRS @CornwallFRS @CRTNewquay @NewquayRNLI& @NewquayPolice @swasFT all worked together to dig man to safety.

"Hoping for a full recovery."

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Police were called by the coastguard at 5.30pm last night (1 July) to Fistral Beach following reports that sand had collapsed onto a male causing him to become trapped.

"Emergency services and members of the public removed him from the hole and he was left in the care of the ambulance service."

A Newquay Community Fire Station spokesperson later warned visitors and residents of the dangers posed by digging holes on the region's beaches.

They said: "We've received good news this morning following yesterday's multi agency response to an 18-year-old stuck in sand.

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"He was checked over and allowed to go home again.

"A big thank you to all the assistance from the public, coastguard and lifeguards.

"As one team using our sand lance, breathing apparatus, spades and surfboards we were able to ensure this was a happy ending.

"This could have easily resulted in crushing or suffocation, please don't dig huge holes in the sand, sand is partial to collapse and the dry weight is around a ton per meter cubed.

"You wouldn't dig a hole in the garden and let your children climb in please don't do it on a beach either."

They added: "Enjoy the beach but please stay safe!"

Topics: Police, Beach, cornwall, Social Media, Twitter, Rescue, Medical

Dominic Smithers

Dominic graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in French and History. Like you, Dom has often questioned how much use a second language has been. Well, after stints working at the Manchester Evening News, the Accrington Observer and the Macclesfield Express, along with never setting foot in France, he realised the answer is surprisingly little. But I guess, c'est la vie. Contact us at [email protected]

@SmithersDom