Rescue Team in New Search

by Stuart Abbott Derby Mountain Rescue Team has started a search for a new permanent headquarters. They are looking for accommodation for the two ambulances, essential team equipment and training facilities. At present they have the use of a large garage for storage but it is not suitable for training purposes so they use rooms, remote from the equipment, generously provided by local businesses. The Team is launching a campaign to raise £250,000 to purchase either an existing building, which could be converted to meet its needs, or to buy land on which to build the new headquarters. The location is around northwest of Derby as far as Wirksworth or Ashbourne. The Team was formed in 1964 and consists of 55 members made up of men and women who are on call 24/7. Derby Mountain Rescue Team covers a large area of the southern Peak District, north to Milldale and Chatsworth and as far south as Milton Keynes. Steve Hilditch, the Team Leader, commented that, “the team of volunteers now require a headquarters to sustain and improve the service in the future”. He added, ?our desire to continue to provide the best possible service for our community, with up-to-date training techniques and facilities. With the support from the community and business will help with our fundraising to hit our target to £250,000?. Derby Mountain Rescue Team have gained the support of Derbyshire?s Chief Constable, David Coleman for their headquarters project. “Mountain rescue volunteers provide invaluable support to Derbyshire Constabulary and other regional police forces. Although this is a voluntary organisation, it is far from being “amateur”. Volunteers are a highly trained, committed group who have superb skills in mountain craft, search and rescue. A permanent base for the team would enable them to improve their already excellent service, and I hope the community will dig deep in its pockets to support this wonderful project.” People who wish to support this project can do so by making donations – check thewebsite www.derbymrt.org.uk for more details.

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