Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team works with emergency services at Otley Chevin after the climber's fall. Photo: CVSRT

A climber was airlifted to hospital after suffering suspected spinal injuries in a 40ft fall at a West Yorkshire crag.

Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team was called out on Sunday afternoon to Otley Chevin after the man fell between 10m and 12m while abseiling.

Team members worked with ambulance crews and members of the hazardous area response team to treat the climber at the scene. He was then placed in an Alphin stretcher after being packaged.

A spokesperson for the Mytholmroyd-based team said: “Due to his injuries and the awkward location of the casualty, it was decided that rather than attempting a steep stretcher carry back up the crag, the safest and quickest way to get him to hospital for treatment was by air.

“As final preparations to position the casualty on the stretcher were made, Sea King Rescue 128 from RAF Leconfield appeared overhead and lowered their winchman to the casualty site.

“After a quick discussion, it was decided that a paramedic would accompany the patient to hospital and he was winched into the helicopter, shortly followed by the winchman with the patient.

“Once aboard, the Sea King flew direct to Leeds General Infirmary.”

The scene at Otley Chevin after the climber's fall. Photo: CVSRT

Two hours later, the Calder Valley team was called out again to deal with an injured walker on Stoodley Pike near Todmorden.

The walker was treated at the scene for an injured leg and then stretchered to a waiting ambulance.

The spokesperson said: “CVSRT would like to send our best wishes to the injured climber and walker, and hope they both make a speedy recovery.”