Some of you may know that I’ve recently become a trainee member of Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team (TWSMRT).  On 3^rd & 4^th July 2021 I shall be taking part in a National 3 Peaks Challenge (a combined TWSMRT/DUCK (Durham University Charities Kommittee) event) and I’ll be leading a group of students from Durham University up Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon.

The aim of the challenge is to raise money for TWSMRT.  Mountain Rescue Teams in England & Wales receive no statutory funding and rely entirely on donations, legacies and fundraising events such as these to cover the costs of vehicles, rescue equipment, medical supplies and other running costs.  TWSMRT consists of about 50 volunteers, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and the Team will typically have between 40 and 50 callouts per year.

I’ve always been in awe of the Mountain Rescue having been active in the mountains most of my life and my opinion of them has not changed since joining them – they are extremely professional, committed and competent and will give up their spare time on a completely voluntary basis to search for or rescue missing people.  One day, that missing person might be you.