A MAN trapped up to his waist by a landslide on a North-East beach has been airlifted to hospital.

Coastguard Rescue Teams were called to the emergency after reports of a landslide at Port Mulgrave, between Staithes and Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire.

Staithes and Whitby Coastguard teams were sent to dig the man out at 8.10pm on Saturday night. He had been collecting fossils on the beach earlier that evening.

The two teams worked using specialist techniques to rescue the man who was immediately airlifted away from the scene by the HM Coastguard Search and Rescue helicopter from Humberside.

The man was taken to the James Cook University Hospital at around 9pm, however his condition is not known.

The large-scale rescue operation involved the Yorkshire Ambulance Service, North Yorkshire Police, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, along with Cleveland Police and Cleveland Fire Brigade.

Ryan Douglas, senior maritime operations officer with HM Coastguard, said: "We’re all too aware of just how dangerous the coastline can be.

"Remember to always keep a distance of at least the height of the cliff away.

"We wish this man all the best for a speedy recovery."

Staithes Coastguard confirmed the man had been assisted by fisherman in the area prior to the arrival of the emergency services.

A spokesman said: "The casualty had been buried up to his waist and trapped by mud and debris.

"When the team arrived to the casualty, they had been dug from the mud by fishermen and moved to a place of safety.

"Due to weather conditions, extremely challenging terrain, and extent of the casualties injuries, we requested further assistance from Whitby Coastguard Rescue Team and Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 912 from Humberside.

"Coastguard team members worked with paramedics from Yorkshire Ambulance Service to stabilise the casualty, assess injuries and provide pain relief.

"The casualty was kept warm and as comfortable as possible prior to the arrival of the helicopter."