A MASSIVE rescue operation took place at Hareshaw Linn near Bellingham on Saturday after a woman plunged over the waterfall, taking her dogs with her.

At just after midday on June 18, Northumberland National Park Rescue Team (NNPRT) and the North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Team (NTMRT) were called by the North East Ambulance Service to attend the incident at the popular beauty spot.

A lady had been walking her dogs when she slipped near the edge of the waterfall and fell 20ft (6m).

She and the dogs landed on rocks in the river below and are said to have suffered serious injuries.

The family of the casualty managed to find a safe route to her and performed first aid. She was taken to Newcastle's RVI with head, neck and back injuries.

The injured dogs were taken to the vets by family members.

The rescue effort took more than three hours.