The Hebrides Search and Rescue team in training
The first new mountain rescue team to be established in Scotland for 11 years is hoping to get official recognition soon.
The Stornoway-based Hebrides Search and Rescue was set up after first being mooted three years ago.
Before the 18-stong team was established, mountaineers in trouble had to rely on the Coastguard, mainland volunteer teams on Skye and in Kintail, Torridon and Assynt. The RAF rescue teams from Kinloss and Leuchars also covered emergencies in the Western Isles.
John Norfolk, manager of Hebrides Search and Rescue, said: “Some time ago the police realised there was a gap in capability with regards to land-based search and rescue.
“We experience some of the worst weather in the British Isles out here and this was also a deciding factor in forming the team.
“The Outer Hebrides are receiving lots of media attention with film crews now a regular sight on the islands: Three Men go to Scotland, Monty Hall’s Hebridean Escape, Highland Emergency, Coast and Countryfile just a few examples.
“With the recent success of Dave MacLeod’s Big Climb and several new guide books the islands have seen a sharp rise in tourism and outdoor pursuits. There is also talk of the Hebrides being promoted as the new adventure destination in the UK.
John Norfolk
“This is all excellent news and may help revive the local economy but we need the infrastructure in place to cope with emergencies.”
The team, which is now operating and supported emergency services during severe winter weather, has applied for membership of the Mountain Rescue Council of Scotland.
Among team members are Emergency Planning Officer Tom Laverty who has served with Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team, Steve Oliver, a veteran of the Woodhead, Edale and Rossendale MRTs and two doctors. All team members are keen climbers or walkers.
The highest peak on the Outer Hebrides is An Cliseam, or Clisham, the 799m (2,621ft) mountain on North Harris, the only Corbett in the island chain.
- Our story originally said the Hebrides team would be the first to be established for in Scotland for 25 years.
Oban Mountain Rescue Team chair John Peden contacted grough to say: “I’m delighted to hear that they are up and running and looking for official recognition from the MRCofS.
“As chairman of Scotland’s first new mountain rescue team for 25 years – 11 years ago! – affiliated to the MRCofS, I am happy to support their application.”
