£11,000 by 11/11/24 in memory of William Onion, Will, (Coach Pickles).
Team 83 have set ourselves the challenge to raise awareness and vital funds for Llanberis Mountain
Rescue. Many of you who knew Will, will know that he lost his life in the mountains whilst we were
hiking along Crib Goch. It’s true what they say, you never think you will need to call for help…
until it becomes your only option.
Following the accident, a 999 call was made, and Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team were urgently
deployed. A helicopter for immediate attendance to Will, and a foot team to make their way along
the ridge to rescue and support the remaining five of us. Using all their resources to escort us to the
safety vehicles on standby. This was all whilst we were coming to terms with the accident that had
happened in front of us. Both land and air rescue support were very professional, reassuring and
efficient throughout the entire day. Ensuring our safety, listening to us, keeping us calm, all while
they carried out their rescue.
To put this into context, The rescue consisted of two helicopters, two Land Rovers, foot teams,
medical team and the numerous support personnel.
Since the accident on 11/11, we have researched Llanberis Mountain Rescue, and how they operate.
The team are all voluntary. They work 24/7, 365 days a year to ensure there is a team on standby,
should people just like us need help in the mountains.
During 2023 alone, Llanberis Mountain Rescue attended 308 callouts, with 7 of these happening
simultaneously within a 24-hour period.
Not only do we appreciate the physical work of a rescue, but the mental strength required to attend
call out, after call out after witnessing such tragic events. With over 50 active members, giving their
time and resources including the dedication to ongoing training. With the assistance of IT support,
equipment maintenance, welfare, finance and fundraising teams. Without these members, their
rescue efforts would not be possible.
We can’t help but think what we would have done on that tragic day, should this team not have
been there to help us. That’s why we have decided to fundraise for them.
Team 83 is going to participate in a continuous 100km Walk / Run in the Peak District in July this
year. Other fundraising activities both solo, and team orientated will be ongoing throughout 2024.
There could be a day in the future, a group of friends find themselves in a similar situation, and
making sure the funds are there to enable this team to support them, is the least we can do to say
Thank You