A MAN was dramatically rescued by a farmer using a quad bike after falling more than 35ft from a rock face.

The Blackpool man, involved in the drama has not yet been named.

He was transferred to the Royal Preston Hospital by ambulance following the rescue yesterday.

He suffered a fractured leg, injuries to both hips and hypothermia following the incident which occurred to the north of Whitewell village, Ribble Valley, at 1am. More than 30 members of Bowland Pennine mountain rescue team were called to the scene close to the popular Inn at Whitewell hotel, pub and restaurant, from across the county.

They grouped at a number of action points within the area but called off when news of the rescue was relayed.

An emergency doctor also called to the scene administered pain killing drugs and helped immobilise the casualty.

Leading rescuer Tony Bond said the team were headed off almost as they arrived following the news the man had been successfully found and treated by paramedics at the scene.

Mr Bond said: "The man suffered serious injuries.

"That is what you would expect from a fall of this nature and severity. The mountaineering team were mobilised.

"But thanks to quick thinking from all the ambulance staff and the local farmer, they managed to get him to safety."

Ambulance crews were on site for two hours.

It is still unknown why the man was in the area at the time.