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Hiker survives 30ft fall at notorious beauty spot
Suzie Dyer suffered severe injuries after tumbling down a steep slope in Waterfall Country, prompting her to advocate for enhanced safety measures in the area.
A survivor of a 30ft fall at a waterfall site with a history of fatalities is calling for enhanced safety measures to prevent further accidents.
On New Year's Day, 50-year-old Suzie Dyer suffered severe injuries to her hip, back, and pelvis while hiking in the Brecon Beacons, also known as Bannau Brycheiniog, in Waterfall Country.
Since 2023, three fatalities have occurred in the area, prompting Dyer, an experienced hiker, to express concerns that more lives may be lost unless certain paths are closed to the public.
Both Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Association (BBNPA) have reported significant upgrades to the area, including improved signage, footpaths, and steps.
The ownership and management of the land are shared among the BBNPA, NRW, and three local authorities, which collectively oversee the maintenance and safety of the area.
Dyer, currently undergoing a lengthy recovery and unable to leave her sofa, has a vivid recollection of the incident, describing it as "the moment that changed everything."
Upon regaining consciousness after the 30ft fall, Dyer's primary concern was her daughter, and she recalls thinking, "I'm not ready to leave my daughter."
Dyer considers herself fortunate to have survived the accident, stating, "I am lucky to be alive," and acknowledging that her survival was unexpected.
A graphic image of an arm injury is included in this article, serving as a warning to readers.
Dyer, a gardener from Hereford, had embarked on a hike with a friend along the Four Waterfalls Walk, a circular route that passes by several waterfalls, including Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira.
Having visited the area twice before, Dyer proceeded along a narrow and eroded path after viewing the first waterfall, quickly realizing the potential dangers.
In a split second, Dyer found herself over the edge, resulting in a severe fall.
The experience was traumatic not only for Dyer but also for her friend, who witnessed the accident and was left shaken.
According to NRW, the incident occurred on a path that was not part of the official trail, and clear warning signs were in place to alert visitors.
The BBNPA stated that while it is possible for visitors to deviate from the promoted route at the Clun-Gwyn waterfall, clear signage was present to indicate that the forward path was closed due to hazardous conditions.
However, Dyer claims she did not see any warning signs or barriers to prevent her from accessing the closed path.
Dyer emphasized that she would never intentionally disregard rules or warnings, stating, "No-one warned me, there were no barriers, there was no tape to say it was shut."
Dyer's life was saved by the timely intervention of three fellow walkers and the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team, as well as emergency services.
The rescue operation, which took four hours to complete, was complex and required careful stabilization of Dyer before she could be transported to the waiting air ambulance.
Huw Jones, a member of the Central Beacons team for over four decades, described the area as an "upside-down mountain" for rescuers, characterized by its remote and wilderness-like nature.
Jones acknowledged the efforts of landowners to improve the area's infrastructure, including steps and handrails, but emphasized that maintaining safety is an ongoing challenge due to the dynamic nature of the environment.
Jones noted that human curiosity often leads people to venture off designated paths, increasing the risk of accidents.
As people explore and seek new experiences, they may inadvertently expose themselves to greater risks, particularly on less maintained paths.
With three fatalities in the area since 2023, the spotlight is now on improving safety measures to prevent further tragedies.
The deaths of Helen and Rachael Patching, aged 52 and 33, from Kent, and 26-year-old Corey Longdon from Gloucester, who died in 2024, have raised concerns about the area's safety.
An assistant coroner, who presided over the inquests into these deaths, recommended clearer signage and improved mobile phone signal in the area to enhance safety.
This recommendation followed a previous report that highlighted concerns about signage in the area after the 2021 death of 22-year-old Akeem Rhoden, who drowned at Sgwd Y Pannwr.
Local residents, familiar with the trail, often assist lost hikers, according to Clyde Baker, a lifelong resident of Pontneddfechan.
Baker described the frequency of mountain rescue call-outs, stating, "You'll hear sirens every Saturday, every Sunday," and advocated for a full-time warden and improved signage.
Baker emphasized the need for enhanced safety measures, saying, "It's pretty much like New York on the weekend," and highlighting the importance of addressing the issue.
Andrew Lamb, a walking guide, wrote to NRW and the BBNPA in August 2024, requesting the closure of a section of path around Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, which has been established as a diversion.
Lamb believes that clear and regular signage, as well as a return to a circular route, would be the safest approach, warning that otherwise, more accidents and fatalities may occur.
He stressed that visitors need to be guided through the route, as the area can be complex to navigate, even for experienced hikers.
Michael Cresswell of NRW offered condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in Waterfall Country and highlighted the organization's ongoing efforts to improve safety.
Cresswell stated that NRW has made and continues to make improvements, including maintaining and enhancing signage and footpaths, monitoring high-risk areas, and encouraging visitors to stay on designated trails.
He acknowledged the inherent risks associated with visiting Waterfall Country, describing it as a "beautiful but wild and rugged place," and reaffirmed NRW's commitment to reducing risks wherever possible.
Cresswell emphasized that the organization's safety efforts are informed by an independent safety review commissioned in 2023.
The goal of reducing risks and preventing accidents remains a top priority for NRW, as they work to balance the need for safety with the desire to preserve the area's natural beauty and appeal.
Visitors to the area are advised to exercise caution, regardless of their swimming experience, and to be prepared for the challenging terrain by sticking to designated trails.
In relation to the incident involving Suzie Dyer, the Natural Resources Wales (NRW) emphasized that warning signs are prominently displayed at the point where the Four Falls Trail diverges at Clun-Gwyn Uchaf Waterfall, alerting visitors to potential hazards.
The warning signs explicitly state that the path ahead is closed due to unstable and narrow sections, falling rocks, and steep drops with no protection, highlighting the risk of fatal and serious accidents that have occurred in the area recently.
The Brecon Beacons National Park Authority (BBNPA) has expressed its condolences to those affected by past incidents in Waterfall Country.
The BBNPA acknowledged concerns about safety on the Four Waterfalls Walk, including the incident on January 1 and earlier concerns raised by the public, and is taking these issues into consideration.
The authority noted that Waterfall Country's landscape is inherently challenging, characterized by steep and uneven terrain, and paths that are susceptible to weather conditions, erosion, and heavy visitor traffic.
The BBNPA collaborated with NRW and local authorities to maintain paths, enhance signage, and provide visitors with accurate safety information, while also recognizing the crucial role of mountain rescue volunteers who respond to incidents in demanding and hazardous conditions.
The authority stated that it is currently reviewing safety information and signage in light of recent inquests and will take into account any recommendations made by the coroner upon receipt.
News
Serie A to air on BBC with live coverage of Scottish matches
A new multi-game rights deal has enabled the BBC to broadcast live coverage of matches featuring several Scotland internationals, including Scott McTominay, Billy Gilmour, Lewis Ferguson, Che Adams, Lennon Miller, Kieron Bowie, and Josh Doig, starting this Sunday.
A number of Scottish players, including Che Adams, Scott McTominay, Billy Gilmour, Lennon Miller, and Lewis Ferguson, are currently competing in Italy's top division, Serie A.
The upcoming Serie A match between Torino and Bologna will be a notable fixture, featuring several Scottish players.
The match is scheduled to take place on Sunday, 15 February, with a kick-off time of 17:00 GMT, at a venue that will be announced.
Fans can catch the live coverage of the match on BBC Alba, starting from 16:50.
A growing list of Scottish players, including Scott McTominay, Billy Gilmour, Lewis Ferguson, Che Adams, Lennon Miller, Josh Doig, and Kieron Bowie, are making a name for themselves in Serie A.
With a record number of Scots playing in Italy's top flight, the BBC is now providing live coverage of their matches, allowing fans to follow their favorite players.
As part of a new package, the BBC will broadcast eight live Serie A matches, showcasing the talents of Scottish players as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup.
The first match to be broadcast on BBC Alba will be the encounter between Torino, featuring striker Che Adams, and Bologna, featuring midfielder Lewis Ferguson, on Sunday, with a 17:00 GMT kick-off.
Bologna will be looking to bounce back from five consecutive domestic defeats, despite recent impressive results in the Europa League and against Celtic.
During their recent run, Bologna drew 2-2 with Celtic and secured a 3-0 win over Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League.
Torino, on the other hand, has only managed one win in their last five outings but will be seeking to build on their recent 2-2 draw against Fiorentina.
Scotland's Nations League campaign is set to begin in Slovenia.
Clarke has confirmed that Barnes will not be making a switch to Scotland.
Scotland is scheduled to face Switzerland in the Nations League.
Future BBC Alba broadcasts will feature matches involving Napoli's Scottish duo, Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour, who is nearing a return from injury, as well as Lennon Miller's Udinese, Josh Doig's Sassuolo, and Kieron Bowie's Hellas Verona.
The number of Scottish players in Serie A has reached a record high, with the likes of Liam Henderson, who has played for several Italian clubs, now competing in Serie B.
Further details of the Serie A matches to be broadcast on BBC Alba will be announced in the coming weeks.
Margaret Cameron, director of content at BBC Alba, expressed her excitement about the opportunity for Scottish fans to watch their favorite players in action, free-to-air, ahead of the World Cup.
Presenter Alex O'Henley is looking forward to hosting the coverage of what he describes as a "golden era" for Scottish players in Italy.
With the World Cup approaching, O'Henley believes it's an exciting time for Scottish fans to follow the fortunes of their players in Italy.
Kieron Bowie made his debut for Verona against Pisa.
Che Adams, who was born in Leicester, has established himself as a key player for Scotland, earning 45 caps and scoring 11 goals since switching allegiances in 2021.
This season, Adams has scored six goals in 26 appearances for Torino, who currently sit 13th in the Serie A table.
Kieron Bowie, who began his career with Raith Rovers, has risen to prominence with Hibernian, scoring nine goals in 30 appearances before joining Hellas Verona in January.
Bowie made his debut for Verona in a 0-0 draw against Pisa, earning his first start for the club.
Josh Doig, who started his career with Hibernian, has become a regular player in Serie A, first with Verona and now with Sassuolo, earning one cap for Scotland.
Doig has made 24 appearances, including 20 starts, for Sassuolo this season.
Lewis Ferguson, who began his career with Hamilton Academical, has become a key player for Bologna, earning 21 caps for Scotland and leading his team to a Coppa Italia final win over AC Milan.
Ferguson has made 29 appearances, including 21 starts, for Bologna this season, helping the team to eighth place in the table.
Billy Gilmour, who started his career with Rangers, has played for several clubs, including Chelsea and Norwich City, before joining Napoli in 2024, where he won his first league title.
Gilmour has been limited to 12 appearances, including six starts, this season due to injury, but is nearing a return to action.
Scott McTominay, who came through Manchester United's youth ranks, has become a key player for Napoli, earning 67 caps for Scotland and scoring 14 goals, including a notable overhead kick against Denmark.
McTominay has made 34 appearances for Napoli this season, scoring 10 goals and helping the team to a strong position in the table.
Lennon Miller, who began his career with Motherwell, has made a promising start to his career, earning four caps for Scotland and joining Udinese in August.
Miller has made 14 appearances, including six starts, for Udinese this season.
Fans can stay up-to-date with their favorite clubs through BBC Sport.
News
GB men’s curling team suffers upset defeat to Italy
At the 2026 Winter Olympics, Great Britain’s men’s curling team mounted a comeback against Italy following a disappointing beginning, ultimately falling short in their inaugural match.
Despite a valiant comeback, Team GB ultimately fell short as Italy held their composure to secure the win in the final end.
A dismal start to the match proved costly for Team GB's men, as they suffered their first defeat of the Winter Olympics at the hands of host nation Italy, despite a spirited fightback in the packed Cortina Curling Stadium.
Following victories in their first two matches, including a win over the Swedish rink that beat them in the gold-medal match four years ago, Team GB entered their second high-profile encounter in as many days in a confident position.
However, a disastrous opening end, in which Italy stole four points, left Team GB trailing and facing an uphill battle in front of a boisterous home crowd.
The British team, currently ranked number one in the world, gradually regained their footing and managed to level the score by the ninth end.
Ultimately, Italy maintained their composure in the final end to emerge victorious, winning 9-7 and adding Team GB to their list of scalps, which already included the Swedes.
"We had to dig deep and play some solid curling, but unfortunately, it wasn't enough to get us over the line," Team GB lead Hammy McMillan said in an interview with BBC Sport.
With seven wins from nine round-robin matches guaranteeing a spot in the semi-finals, Team GB remains in a strong position, although fewer wins may still be sufficient to advance.
The women's team is set to take to the ice next, facing South Korea in their second match at 13:05 GMT, while the men will return to action on Saturday against the Czech Republic at the same time.
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The looks of shock on the faces of Team GB's curlers told the story of a disastrous opening end.
With a stone in play, Mouat attempted a risky shot in an effort to claim two points, but it backfired, resulting in none of Team GB's stones in the house and four Italian stones in position.
However, the Scottish quartet, ranked number one in the world, quickly regained their composure and got back to their game.
The teams exchanged singles before a impressive final throw by Mouat, aided by a measurement to determine which stone was closest to the button, allowed Team GB to claim two points and narrow the gap to 5-3.
Another excellent team effort, which included a well-judged throw by Mouat, a solid sweep by Hammy McMillan and Bobby Lammie, and Grant Hardie's strategic expertise, forced Italy to concede a point in the fourth end, reducing the deficit to a single point at the break.
Italy blanked the sixth end and added two points in the seventh to rebuild their lead, but Team GB fought back with two points of their own, remarkably levelling the score with one end remaining after a steal.
The match came down to the final end, but Italy held their nerve to secure the win, prompting a deafening roar from the crowd.
"It's an incredible experience, and we need to get used to it," McMillan added, describing the electric atmosphere as "surreal" and "cool," more akin to a football match than a typical curling crowd.
News
Scotland Kicks Off Nations League Against Slovenia
Uefa has released the schedule for the Nations League, with Scotland set to begin their campaign on 26 September with an away match against Slovenia.
Uefa has released the schedule for the Nations League, with Scotland's campaign set to begin on 26 September with an away match against Slovenia.
The team's six group stage games will be played within a three-month period, culminating in a match against Switzerland on 16 November.
The fixture list was announced following Thursday's draw, which placed Scotland in a group with Switzerland, Slovenia, and North Macedonia.
Having been relegated from League A after a play-off loss to Greece last year, Scotland will compete in the second tier of the Nations League this year.
In response to the draw, head coach Steve Clarke noted that the teams in the group appear to be evenly matched.
Clarke reflected on the team's past experience in the competition, stating that it has been beneficial for Scotland.
He emphasized the importance of the Nations League, citing its role in helping the team qualify for Euro 2020, and anticipated a challenging set of matches.
A key matchup in the Nations League will see Scotland face off against Switzerland.
The group stage will determine the teams' fates, with the winner earning promotion, the runner-up entering a play-off, the third-placed team facing a relegation play-off, and the fourth-placed team being relegated directly.
The upcoming group games will mark a reunion for Scotland and Switzerland, who previously drew 1-1 in Cologne at Euro 2024.
Scotland's last encounter with Slovenia was during the 2018 World Cup qualification campaign, when they won 1-0 at home and drew 2-2 away.
The team has not played North Macedonia since the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, when they drew 1-1 at home and won 2-1 away, with goals from Ikechi Anya and Shaun Maloney.
The schedule for Scotland's Nations League campaign begins on 26 September with a match against Slovenia.
The team will then host Switzerland on 29 September, followed by a trip to face North Macedonia on 3 October.
Scotland will then play Slovenia at home on 6 October, before hosting North Macedonia on 11 November.
The final group stage match will see Scotland travel to face Switzerland on 16 November.
The team's home match against North Macedonia is set for 11 November.
The campaign will conclude with an away match against Switzerland on 16 November.
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