In a coordinated rescue operation on the evening of Wednesday, 13th March, two walkers who found themselves disoriented as darkness descended on Kinder Scout were safely located and escorted back to safety, thanks to the swift action of the Buxton Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) and its partners.
The walkers, who had embarked on an afternoon hike, realised they were lost as night fell and wisely decided to call for help. They dialled ‘999’ and requested assistance, but due to the remote location on Kinder Scout in the Peak District, their mobile phone reception was poor, rendering the team’s PhoneFind technology unusable.
In response to the situation, the comprehensive ‘Kinder Plan’ was activated, mobilising all four Mountain Rescue Teams responsible for the Kinder Scout area. This included volunteers from Glossop MRT, Kinder MRT, Edale MRT, and the Buxton MRT, along with search dogs from the Mountain Rescue Search Dogs England.
The rescue teams faced challenging conditions as they scoured the area for the lost walkers. Ultimately, it was the Edale Mountain Rescue Team that located the pair in Grindsbrook Clough. Despite being wet and slightly embarrassed, the walkers were found to be in good health. They were then escorted back to Edale and rewarmed in the team’s vehicle, ensuring their safety and well-being.
The operation saw an impressive turnout of over 80 volunteers across the four teams, with 31 members from the Buxton team alone dedicating their time to the search effort. The successful rescue highlights the critical role of mountain rescue teams and the importance of collaboration among different groups in ensuring the safety of those enjoying the UK’s outdoor spaces.
The Buxton Mountain Rescue Team, funded entirely by public donations, expressed gratitude to all volunteers who participated in the rescue. This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by changing conditions in the great outdoors and the invaluable service provided by mountain rescue teams, who are ready to respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The operation also showcased the vital support of search dogs like Wren, whose skills and dedication are essential to the success of mountain rescue missions. The community’s support for these volunteer teams ensures that they can continue their life-saving work, safeguarding both seasoned hikers and casual walkers alike.
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.
