Rescue 999
At around 1845 on 16 February 2016 Police Scotland requested the team’s assistance to search for 3 males who had been walking in the Durisdeer Hills and had failed to return home.
16 team members searched into the night, along with two search and rescue dogs. There was heavy rain and snow with high winds and poor visibility. Conditions meant that in the early hours the search was stood down until first light when more resources could be brought to the search.
At 0830 on 17th the search resumed with other agencies including Galloway MRT, Tweed Valley MRT, RAF Leeming MRT, a Coastguard Helicopter (R999), SARDA Southern Scotland and Police Scotland.
Over 50 personnel were involved in the search in now improved conditions, but still with a strong cold wind.
The casualties were located by mid afternoon by the Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 999 and airlifted to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.
The Search area spread from Durisdeer to Daer Reservoir, Glenleith fell, Wedder law, Comb Law, Black hill, Well Hill
Team Searching
Moffat Mountain Rescue Team Leader, Colin Golphin said, “The weather, although ok during the day, deteriorated rapidly overnight. The team searched the hills during the night in extremely poor conditions. The team are grateful for the help of our neighbouring teams, SARDA, RAF Leeming MRT and the coastguard helicopter R999. Our condolences are with the family of the walkers who died. ”.
Charity Challenge
Every year Moffat Mountain Rescue Team holds its annual charity walk in the hills around the team’s area of operation. There are 4 walks of varying difficulty to meet the needs of all comers. This years challenge is being held in the Durisdeer Hills on the 12 June. Find out more on our challenge page
