Police try to rescue man trapped 290ft in the air on giant chimney

A man is trapped at around 290ft in the air on the top of a giant former mill chimney.

Police are trying to rescue him after he became stuck on Dixon’s Chimney at around 2.20am this morning.

Photographs from the scene appear to show the man dangling from the top of the structure, as a coastguard helicopter hovered overhead at around 8.15am.

Officers appealed for anyone with a cherrypicker over 90 metres high to get in touch, as it might be able to help the man.

Roads around the area in Carlisle, Cumbria, have been cordoned off while the operation continues.

John McVay, Cumbria Fire and rescue area manager, said: ‘This is a very complex and difficult process given the obvious dangers to the man and the extreme difficulty in gaining access to him in a way which will keep him and emergency services safe.

‘I can assure the public that the emergency services are working tirelessly and effectively together to resolve this issues safely for all and that the protection of life is our first priority.

‘I ask people impacted by the incident and the road closures to continue to show patience.

‘I’d also like to ask anyone who has a cherry picker  in excess of 90 metres within Cumbria to please contact Cumbria police or Cumbria Fire and rescue service on 999.’

The road is currently closed at Stanhope Road, Charlotte Street and Shaddongate where it meets Bridge Street (A595)

Members of the public were asked to avoid the area.