Gratitude from the Brink: £5K Donation to Highland Rescue Team Marks 50-Year Survival Anniversary

In a remarkable act of gratitude, Rosie McCusker (nee Horder), a survivor of a dramatic mountain rescue operation over 50 years ago, has donated £5,000 to the Kintail Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT).

As an 11-year-old, McCusker miraculously survived a 200ft fall over the Falls of Glomach in Wester Ross during a family hiking trip in 1973.

The donation serves as a heartfelt thank you to the KMRT volunteers who risked their lives to save hers on that fateful day.

Kintail Mountain Rescue Team/The Horder family (Image: Kintail Mountain Rescue Team)

The incident, which saw McCusker narrowly escape death after slipping and plunging down the falls, required a complex and challenging rescue operation involving over 40 volunteers.

The operation lasted nine hours, highlighting the perilous nature of mountain hiking and the critical role of mountain rescue teams.

McCusker’s survival was a testament to the skill and dedication of the KMRT, who managed to safely retrieve her from the treacherous terrain.

The generous donation by the Horder family, originally from Ayr, is not only a gesture of appreciation but also a tribute to the late father of the family.

It recognises the bravery of the volunteers who venture out in all weathers to assist those in need.

The funds will aid KMRT in purchasing essential equipment, ensuring that the tradition of volunteer-led mountain rescue operations continues, supported by modern technology and communications.

Falls of Glomach warning sign (Image: Kintail Mountain Rescue Team)

This story serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers associated with mountain hiking and the invaluable service provided by mountain rescue teams across the UK.

The Horder family’s experience and subsequent donation underscore the importance of supporting these volunteer organisations, which stand ready to assist hikers in distress, ensuring the safety of countless outdoor enthusiasts.

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