An orthopaedic specialist from Oxford who has helped numerous patients with injuries found himself requiring assistance after fracturing his ankle during a countryside stroll.

Professor Chris Lavy, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon based in Oxford, became an unexpected patient during a visit to Cornwall.

Prof Lavy had been enjoying a four-day ramble along the South West Coast Path accompanied by his dog and a group of eight companions.

The group was making their way between the settlements of Par and Fowey when conditions caused the outing to take an unexpected turn.

Prof Lavy noted that the conditions were not ideal, with persistent drizzle falling onto already saturated ground, though the group had prepared appropriately for such weather.

He spotted a sheep in a neighbouring field and summoned his Labrador towards him. As he set down his walking poles to attach the lead, the dog gave a gentle pull, causing him to lose his footing.

His leg gave way and he heard a cracking sound, and he knew straight away that he had fractured his ankle.

His companions dialled 999 and requested the Coastguard, prompting the dispatch of St Austell Coastguard Rescue Team to the location.

He noted that the sight of rescuers appearing over the hill provided considerable comfort, and he observed that the system clearly functioned extremely well.

Officer in charge Martin Cocks noted that Prof Lavy possessed entirely suitable footwear and had prepared adequately for the conditions, though managing dogs in slippery situations can frequently result in mishaps.

He noted that due to the heavy mud and recent weather conditions, coastal routes can become hazardous very quickly.

The team examined Prof Lavy and applied a splint to his foot.

They contemplated transporting him to the road using a stretcher but concluded that the isolated setting and challenging ground made this impractical.

Station officer Simon Blench reported that they conducted an initial patient assessment, stabilised the ankle, and secured it with strapping.

He noted that it was noteworthy to discover that Chris had actually treated hundreds of similar injuries himself, but in that situation he was an injured patient experiencing pain who required their assistance.

Team members shielded Prof Lavy from strong downdrafts and loose material as an HM Coastguard rescue helicopter lowered its stretcher and winch paramedic.

Following his airlift to a nearby hospital, scans revealed he had sustained a trimalleolar fracture.

A substantial plaster cast was applied along with instructions for complete rest, while his companions continued their walk.

He noted that for someone who has likely treated hundreds of broken ankles over the years, it was illuminating to experience the situation from the other perspective.

He expressed sincere gratitude to the Coastguards for their exceptional professionalism and support throughout the incident.

Mr Cocks observed that witnessing an effective rescue come together successfully does inspire pride in the work they perform.