Volunteers for Cheshire Search and Rescue team have made an urgent plea for funding after three of the group’s vehicles were taken off the road.
The organisation has lost two Landrovers and a third vehicle following the extensive six-day search for missing Nantwich pensioner Roy Tomlinson.
Now they face having to replace these in 2016, costing more than £100,000, so they continue their work.
Dozens of volunteers gave up several days to take part in the massive search for dementia sufferer Mr Tomlinson after he walked out of Brookfield House care home on Shrewbridge Road last month.
The fleet currently consists of one Landrover Defender, one support van to carry items like water kit, a donated Ford Ranger pick up and a new purpose-built HiLux first used in the Cheshire floods.
But after the Nantwich search, both Landrovers had to be taken off the road due to mechanical failure.
And the Ford Ranger was crushed (pictured, above and right) when a 120-year-old tree fell on it at the Cheshire East Council premises where it is stored.
Team Leader Simon Lane said: “2016 has started with a high profile six-day search in Nantwich that involved the majority of the team and a number of surrounding teams.
“The rest of the year promises to be an exciting time for the team, and we’d like to thank the many dedicated supporters who help to raise the funds necessary to keep us on the road.
“We started 2015 with an ambitious long-term plan to upgrade our vehicle fleet as well as improve other kit and equipment.
“And while we’re happy to report we’re progressing well, recent events mean it’s become a more urgent need.
“The future of the team looks very strong as we continue to build on the strong foundations developed over the last 12 years.”
Cheshire Search and Rescue was launched 12 years ago, and 2015 was its busiest year with 35 call outs working with Cheshire Police and Mountain Rescue – including major incidents like the Bosley Mill explosion, and flooding in Cheshire, Manchester and Cumbria.
Members also attended 151 fundraising and community engagement events to raise funds to run and develop the team.
In total, members gave up 16,556 hours away from their families (including Boxing Day) to support people in Cheshire and beyond.
It now has 70 members made up of fully operational, probationary and support staff. There are six Search Managers, 10 Search Planners and 14 Swift Water Rescue Technicians.
If you can help with donations, or if you want more information about the team, visit www.cheshire-sarteam.org
Recent Comments