A WOMAN who had suffered a suspected broken ankle was rescued from the beach as the incoming tide approached.

Paramedics, firefighters and Furness Coastguard were called to the beach at Bardsea at 12.17pm today (Thursday).

A 999 call had been made after a woman had fallen and suffered a suspected broken ankle.

With high tide just over an hour away two fire crews from Ulverston and one from Barrow made their way to the woman and placed her on a stretcher provided by the Coastguard.

She was then safely handed over to paramedics who took her to Furness General Hospital.

Acting Fire Commander for South Cumbria, Roger Exley, said the incoming tide meant time was of the essence and the woman could not be carried off the beach.

"The lady had suffered what we suspect was a broken ankle and was out on the shoreline," he said.

"North West Ambulance Service mobilised first responders, an ambulance and just as a precautionary measure they also asked us to attend with the Coastguard.

"We went along with the Coastguard, put her on a stretcher and brought her off the shoe.

"It was just in time really as the tide was fast approaching.

"Due to her position and injury it wasn't possible to move her in any other way."

A spokesman for Furness Coastguard said: "During a PR event this afternoon, Furness Coastguard were paged at 12.17pm to assist North West Ambulance Service in the extrication of a casualty from Bardsea beach.

"High water was due at 1.25pm at a height of 9.3 metres. Due to the position of the casualty the incident soon became a high risk incident due to the immobility of the casualty and the quick high rising tide covering the area.

Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service provided vital assistance in the Rescue with JESIP (Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles) providing a link between both services.

"From the whole team, we wish the person a full recovery from her injury."