UK - Amazing mid-air rescue of UK Red Devils parachutist

[zwiebel]

A member of the UK's famed Red Devils (because of the red smoke they use) parachute regiment has had a lucky escape after his parachute failed to open during an air show in Whitehaven, Cumbria, on Friday.

As the man went into freefall, a teammate rushed to his aid and managed to catch him. Although the man then managed to activate his chute, it still failed to fully open and the pair made a rapid descent - red smoke still pouring from their heels - towards rooftops while horrified onlookers watched.

Happily, both escaped unharmed and 'within ten minutes were tucking into pie, peas and a pint', authorities said. An investigation will be held.

Videos at the links.
http://www.itv.com/news/story/2015-06-20/red-devil-lucky-escape-as-parachute-fails-to-open/

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-33209995

ETA: From checking second video, I see they landed in water. I suspect that helped as they came down so fast.

 

[zwiebel]

It was Cpl Mike French whose parachute failed and Cpl Wayne Shortehouse who saved him. First parachute fail for the Red Devils in 25 years. Cpl French says he's 'thinking' of buying a pint for his mate as a thank you, and both say they haven't been put off the shows.

(Interviews heard via BBC Radio)

 

[newone]

It was Cpl Mike French whose parachute failed and Cpl Wayne Shortehouse who saved him. First parachute fail for the Red Devils in 25 years. Cpl French says he's 'thinking' of buying a pint for his mate as a thank you, and both say they haven't been put off the shows.

(Interviews heard via BBC Radio)

Cpl Shortehouse should be getting free pints from the whole team!