Sorry we have been quiet for a while but the past six months have been busy and eventful for the team. As we reach the midpoint of the year, we are pleased to share our updates and achievements.
Call Outs
Since the beginning of 2024, we have responded to over 20 call outs. Each operation presents unique challenges, and some have been particularly noteworthy.
Medical Incident on the Blorenge during severe winter conditions:
In another incident, two well-prepared campers needed our help after one fell ill during their stay on the Blorenge. Despite the cold and challenging weather, our team managed to reach them and provide the necessary assistance.
Lost Walker on Offa’s Dyke Path:
The following day, we were alerted by Dyfed-Powys Police about a lost walker on Offa’s Dyke Path. The search area spanned approximately 14 km between Hay on Wye and Hatterall Hill. Despite the equally challenging weather, we successfully located and assisted the walker.
Max the Dog on the Skirrid:
While animal rescues are not typically part of our operations, we made an exception in March for Max the dog. Max had gotten stuck on a steep and dangerous crag on the west side of the Skirrid. To prevent any risky attempts by others, we safely lowered a team member to retrieve Max, reuniting him with his relieved family in the car park.
Training
Training is a critical part of our operations, ensuring we are prepared for all scenarios. This year, we’ve focused on a variety of training exercises:
– Gullies in the Northern Blacks: We have been honing our skills in navigating and rescuing from challenging gullies.
– Triage & Major Incident Training on the Blorenge: We conducted an extensive training session on triage and managing major incidents. Interestingly, just as this training concluded, we were called to assist a hang glider in distress, putting our training to immediate use.
Medical Training: We emphasise the importance of medical skills, and we’ve had intensive sessions focused on providing critical care in the field.
– Crag Team Training: Our specialised crag team has been perfecting their techniques to handle the most difficult and dangerous terrains.
Events
Big Black Mountain Challenge (BBMC):
In May, we hosted our annual fundraiser, the Big Black Mountain Challenge, welcoming over 800 participants to the Llanthony Valley. The weather was favorable, and while the event is not a competitive race, we saw some impressive times. The fastest participant completed the longest 30-mile route in just under 6 hours and 10 minutes. We look forward to announcing the date for the 2025 BBMC in the autumn, which will mark its 40th year.
New Team Members
We are excited to welcome 12 new probationary members to our team. Their addition strengthens our capability to respond to emergencies and continue our mission of saving lives.
Montane Summer Spine Race
Finally, we would like to recognise five of our teammates who recently competed in the Montane Summer Spine Race. This non-stop endurance challenge along the Pennine Way is one of Britain’s most brutal, covering 108 miles with a 60-hour time limit. Special congratulations to Damon, Delyth, Martin, Matt, and Abergavenny’s own Brett Mahoney, who finished first with an incredible time of 28 hours and 38 minutes.
About Longtown Mountain Rescue Team
Longtown Mountain Rescue Team is a voluntary organisation that responds to police requests for assistance in the Black Mountains of South Wales and Herefordshire for injured and missing people. The Team is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, relying entirely on donations from the public to carry out this essential life-saving service.
For further information, please contact:
Daniel Mazhindu, LMRT Press Officer – pressofficer@longtownmrt.org.uk We thank the community for their ongoing support and look forward to the next six months of continued service and training.
