Two Dovestones call-outs for Oldham Mountain Rescue Team

Oldham Mountain Rescue Team launched its second call-out of the week at Dovestones after one walker fell ill and another became lost in the dark.

The first incident took place at around 8pm on Monday, October 19, when Greater Manchester Police (GMP) requested the help of the OMRT following a report of a lost walker at Dovestones. 

Based on the information provided, two potential search areas were identified: Birchen Clough and Raven Stones. Volunteers mobilised to deploy to both locations, before GMP confirmed the walker’s location near Birchen Clough. 

The team of 18 volunteers swiftly located the individual and, following an initial assessment, provided additional warm layers before escorting them down Birchen Clough. They then assisted the individual across the water above the weir and safely to its waiting 4x4 Control vehicle. 

The individual was driven to the OMRT's base for a final check. They were then driven in a team vehicle to the local train station where they continued their journey home. 

The second incident took place at around 2pm the next day (Tuesday, October 20) when the team were called for help by Greater Manchester Police after a walker fell ill.

Using SARLOC phone-location technology, they were able to pinpoint the casualty's location near Ashway Memorial Cross. 

The team of 12 volunteers quickly made their way up to the area, where the casualty was assessed and provided with additional warm layers before being carefully escorted on foot down to their waiting Oldham Mountain Rescue Team (OMRT) control vehicle for further assessment. 

Once these checks were complete, the casualty was driven back to their car in the car park. 

The OMRT is appealing for help to replace its ageing Land Rovers, which are vital to getting their team and equipment into places other vehicles simply can't reach and are fundraising to replace them. 

Please support OMRT's Vehicle Fundraiser: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/omrtvehiclesfundraiser 

Every donation, big or small, helps them to continue responding when people need them most.