Labrador named Narla's incredible rescue mission from the Devon cliffs following being missing for 72 hours.
Labrador named Narla's incredible rescue mission from the Devon cliffs following being missing for 72 hours.
Narla’s ordeal began when she ventured on an unplanned adventure around Ladram Bay Holiday Park. What was meant to be a harmless exploration turned into a tense rescue operation when she found herself stuck on a narrow 2ft-wide ledge, perched precariously above the crashing waves below.
For three days, rescuers faced brutal weather conditions, a lack of food and water for the dog, and challenging terrain. Teams from the local coastguard and fire services worked tirelessly, determined to bring Narla to safety. Search efforts involved combing the area on foot and waiting for a low tide or a break in the weather to access the cliffs.
“We searched high and low, waiting for the wind to drop enough to fly a drone or for the tide to go out far enough for us to walk the path below,” said one of the rescuers. “Finally, at 1 pm, we were able to get round and see her peering over the top of a ledge. Turns out, she was just having her own adventure!”
Fay, one of the rescue team members, recounted the moment they finally saw Narla. “After three days of relentless searching, we caught a low enough tide to get around the headland at Ladram Bay Beach. Then, I heard a whine, and there she was, sitting on a 6ft by 2ft ledge.”
With the coastguard and fire service teams on hand, the rescue operation was executed swiftly. Narla was safely brought down from the cliffs in what has been described as a miraculous turnaround.
“It’s taught me a lot—not to make assumptions, just keep searching,” Fay added.
The rescue teams were praised by local residents and animal lovers, with many expressing gratitude for their hard work and determination.
The Exmouth Coastguard Rescue Team, Beer Coastguard Rescue Team, and Devon Fire and Rescue Services all received heartfelt thanks for their efforts.
“Thank you isn’t enough to express my gratitude to the fire service and coastal guards who came and rescued her within minutes,” said a relieved Narla’s owner.

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