Dog in Cornwall Rescued after 26 Hours from a Mine Shaft in St. Ives

Thanks to a group of amazing and capable volunteers, this dog was rescued after spending 26 hours trapped down an old mining shaft. 

The terrier named Suka was reported missing one weekend while the dog was out for a walk with his owner Ben Weston, near a place known as St. Ives.

Suka was off leash and ran into the woods; however, she never returned when her owner called for her. 

Weston searched for Suka the whole night and the entire Monday morning. Eventually, he came near a deep hole from where they heard poor Suka crying. 

Volunteers Come Together to Help Trapped Suka 

The extraordinary rescue down the mine shaft was done by Carbis Bay Crew. This volunteering group consists of cavers, divers, miners, climbers, and explorers. 

The whole rescue was documented and the video is really emotional. Suka was finally rescued and reuniting with her owners brought relief to everyone.

One of the volunteers, Sam Perkins, who was part of the rescue said that the fire brigade came to the scene and they arrived five minutes later.

The situation was assessed, but they couldn’t pick up any signs of life. So, he couldn’t commit to sending someone down there.

However, once they decided to go back, they heard Suka crying again. 

This meant that they had to do something and get her out. 

It Was Not an Easy Rescue, but They Were Happy Suka Was Alive & Well

The brave rescuers who went down the mine shaft weren’t entirely sure what they were standing on; so, they had to improvise, put on the gear,  and go down.

They noticed that the miners had placed timber across the shaft and granite on top; however, the timber was rotten so the only thing holding everything up was a bit of soil and granite compacting on itself. 

Eventually, Suka was out and her owners were relieved. 

Unfortunately, the volunteer group notes that not all of their rescues are stories with a happy end. We’re happy that Suka got to reunite with her family!

Sources:

FALMOUTH PACKET

INDEPENDENT