FIREFIGHTERS, paramedics and air ambulance staff were called out after a couple fell down an embankment, while engaging in 'amorous' activities.

The pair, both in their early 30s, had to be taken to hospital following the incident on Brunt Acres Road, Hawes, yesterday.

Fire crews from North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue say the couple were leaning against a stone wall alongside the road when the female fell backwards over the wall and down a steep embankment.

It is thought her partner tried to catch her, but the momentum of the fall also pulled him over the top and down the embankment.

Firefighters attended the incident, near the entrance to the Upper Wensleydale Business Park, at around 12.20pm.

They used ladders and manpower to help paramedics gain access to the casualties and transfer them to stretchers.

The male was taken to hospital via air ambulance suffering possible abdominal and leg injuries.

The female was taken to hospital via road ambulance suffering possible pelvic injuries.

A spokesman for the North Yorks fire service said: "It is believed the couple were in an amorous position."