TWO paragliders who crashed in mid-air and plummeted 300 ft to the ground have miraculously survived.

Andy Lane, 41, of Carnforth, and Bob Green, 47, of Ulverston, collided while flying at Clough Head near Keswick. The canopies of their machines became tangled as they plunged to the ground.

Both men are now recovering in hospital after a dramatic rescue operation. Keswick mountain rescue team raced to the scene of the accident to help the men, who were then airlifted to hospital by helicopter.

Mr Lane sustained severe chest and arm injuries in the accident, which took place last Sunday, but incredibly Mr Green suffered only cuts and bruises.

A woman, Alison Blyth, 31, of South Shields, was also treated for leg injuries she sustained while running to help the wounded men.

A police investigation has now been launched to find out how the horrific accident happened.

A spokesman for Cumbria Police said: "The two men were paragliding at Clough Head which is a popular spot for the activity.

"The two paragliders collided in mid-air and their canopies became entangled. They fell about 300 ft.

"The accident happened at around 2 pm on Sunday and the men were assisted by members of the Keswick mountain rescue team.

"They were then airlifted to Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle."

The spokesman added the men had been very lucky to survive a fall from 300 ft.

Clough Head is a favoured spot for paragliders because of the strong winds and high peaks in that part of the Lake District.

Members of the Keswick mountain rescue team, made up of volunteers who also have regular jobs, were unavailable for comment.

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