First call-out of 2026 for rescue group as walker injured in Tipperary at weekend

An injured walker had to be rescued in an emergency operation in County Tipperary last weekend.

The incident marked the first call-out of 2026 for the South Eastern Mountain Rescue Association (SEMRA) and occurred at approximately 2.50pm on Saturday, January 3, on Long Hill above Clonmel.

SEMRA said it was contacted by the National Ambulance Service (NAS) to assist a walker who had fallen and sustained a leg injury. Rescue team members and vehicles were then dispatched to the Holy Year Cross trailhead.

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Thanks to the recent cold spell, ground conditions were firm, allowing SEMRA’s Land Rovers to reach the casualty site without difficulty. The injured walker was placed in a kisu storm shelter to keep warm and was assessed by the team doctor. An NAS advanced paramedic was also transported to the scene.

After assessment, the walker’s leg was splinted and pain relief was administered. The injured person was then secured on a stretcher and transported by Land Rover down the hill to a waiting NAS ambulance.

The operation concluded at 5.11pm, with all personnel safely off the hill. SEMRA described it as “a glorious evening on the hill” and wished the injured walker a speedy recovery.

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