Oldham rescue team drafted in to assist during Tameside storm 'major incident'

An Oldham Mountain Rescue Team member assists at the Tameside incident during the night

In the very early hours this morning (Thursday), the Oldham Mountain Rescue Team received a request for support from Greater Manchester Police who had declared a 'major incident' in the response to Storm Gerrit.

Localised very high winds had caused significant damage to property across areas of Tameside, including Millbrook and Carrbrook villages near Stalybridge.

While homes and other buildings had been evacuated by GMP and the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, there was further concern that residents who had been displaced may have become disorientated and strayed into the wooded areas surrounding a housing estate.

OMRT searched these areas, as well as carrying out a welfare check on a remote house.

Once satisfied that the tasking was complete, the Oldham rescue team stood down at around 6.30am this morning.

The rescue team's thoughts and wishes are with the many people affected by this severe weather event.

A total of 12 OMRT personnel were involved for three hours.

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