In a night-time rescue operation on Saturday, 24th February 2024, the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team (CMRT) was called out to assist North Yorkshire Police and the National Police Air Service in locating and extracting a lost walker on the North York Moors.
The operation, which involved five direct team members and ten on standby, lasted four hours, marking the team’s fifth call-out of the month and their second consecutive Saturday night rescue.
The incident unfolded in the Clay Bank area, following reports of calls for help heard from nearby woodland.
A Land Rover with four CMRT members was dispatched to liaise with police officers at the scene, while the rest of the team was put on standby.
A crucial element in the rescue was the use of a police drone, which successfully located the man in Broughton Plantation, west of Clay Bank.
The man, who had become disorientated and unable to find his way out of the woodland, had resorted to shouting for help.
His calls were heard by a local resident, who alerted the police. Despite challenging ground conditions, including the need for snow chains due to muddy tracks, the CMRT managed to reach the casualty.
He was found to be very wet and extremely cold, with temperatures below freezing, but had only suffered minor grazes.
After being warmed up in a casualty bag and assessed by the team, the man was deemed well enough to be escorted to the Land Rover, which had been moved closer to the scene.
He was then driven to the Clay Bank car park, where he was handed over to family members.
The operation highlighted the effectiveness of collaboration between the CMRT, North Yorkshire Police, and the National Police Air Service, particularly the innovative use of drone technology in locating the casualty.
The incident underscores the risks associated with walking in remote areas, especially under adverse weather conditions, and the importance of being prepared for emergencies.
The Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team’s swift response and the successful outcome of the rescue operation demonstrate the critical role of volunteer rescue services in ensuring the safety of individuals enjoying the natural beauty of the North York Moors.
Andy Halliday is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and an avid camper. He has been exploring the wilderness and camping in the great outdoors for over two decades, and his experiences have inspired him to write about the joys of camping and the beauty of nature.
As a camping enthusiast, he believes that spending time in the wilderness is not just a way to escape the daily grind, but also a way to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Andy has camped in various locations across the country and on two different continents. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with fellow campers.
Through his writing, he hopes to inspire you to venture out into the wilderness and experience the beauty and serenity of camping. Andy articles and guides provide useful tips, advice, and insights on everything from selecting the right gear and equipment to finding the best campsites and hiking trails.
