British skydiver rescues teammate after parachute fails to open

WHITEHAVEN, U.K. -- Two British skydivers survived a mid-air mishap Friday, intentionally colliding after one of their parachutes failed and working together to land safely.

It was a frightening scene in the skies as two members of the British Army's Red Devil stunt team seemed to collide mid-air.

But the incident was actually a rescue operation after one of the men's parachute failed to open 2,700 feet above the ground.

"We realized something's not quite right," Corporal Mike French said.

French wrapped his legs around the ropes of Corporal Wayne Smallhouse, French's legs carrying the weight of Smallhouse and his parachute as hundreds of spectators anxiously watched in fear.

French tried to find the safest landing area, and at last located water to prepare for a safe landing.

"As soon as we knew we were in this predicament, training kicked straight in," Smallhouse said.

The Red Devils confirmed the incident, posting on Facebook: "For the first time in 25 years, they had a parachute fail. One team member caught his teammate and brought him into Queens Dock. Our safety procedures worked perfectly."