An army veteran’s ambitious attempt to set a world record for the longest continuous stay on the tiny, remote North Atlantic isle of Rockall has been cut short, leading to his rescue by the coastguard.
Cam Cameron, from Cherhill near Calne in Wiltshire, embarked on his challenge on May 26th, aiming to spend 60 days on the uninhabitable rock, located 230 miles (370km) west of North Uist. His courageous endeavor was also intended to raise money for veterans’ charities.
Rockall, a famously isolated and perilous outpost, measures only 100ft (30m) wide and 70ft (21m) long above the water level, offering minimal shelter from the elements.
After 32 days on the exposed rock, Mr. Cameron, 56, made a distress call at 08:55 GMT on Friday due to “declining weather conditions.” The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) promptly responded, dispatching a search and rescue helicopter from Stornoway. A spokeswoman for the MCA later confirmed that Mr. Cameron had been successfully winched to safety following a complex operation, which was also supported by a fixed-wing aircraft.
While his record attempt was curtailed, Cameron’s bravery and dedication to his cause have garnered widespread attention and support.
