Dramatic multi-agency operation to free trapped worker in Glen Clova

The "highly dramatic" multi-agency rescue was launched on Friday to free a landworker who had become trapped under the root plate of a large tree. The man is now recovering at home.

Tayside’s Divisional Police Mountain Rescue Team and volunteers from Tayside Mountain Rescue Team were deployed to rescue the worker who had been buried under the unstable root plate of the large tree which had collapsed during attempts to clear wind-fallen debris after recent storms.

A large multi-agency rescue effort swung into effect also involving the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Scottish Ambulance Service and Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance - SCAA from both Perth and Aberdeen.

After nearly two hours, the casualty was successfully freed and flown to hospital for treatment.

Constable Paul Morgan, Police MRT leader, said the rescue was one of the finest operations he has been involved with in terms of the teamwork involved.

He said “The events in Glen Clova on Friday were highly dramatic and required a very varied skillset to resolve successfully. Thanks to joint-services training and the mutual understanding that Police, MRT, fire and rescue and the NHS have, everyone was able to play to their strengths and work together over an extended period to rescue the casualty.

"I can safely say that it was one of the finest pieces of multi-agency rescue work I have been involved in during my many years of both Policing and Mountain Rescue work and every one of the responders involved were a credit to their respective service. I’m delighted to report that the casualty is recovering well at home.”