Now it’s your turn to help

MEMBERS of the Oldham Mountain Rescue team who are urging the public to back their bid for a national title and vital funding

Mountain rescue team calls on public to back bid for vital funding

OLDHAMERS are being urged to vote to secure a donation that could help to save lives.
Oldham Mountain Rescue Team needs people to give their backing in a unique award which could see them crowned Team of the Year by Goodyear tyres.

As official safety partner to Mountain Rescue England and Wales, Goodyear has launched the initiative to reward one team’s round-the-clock efforts by offering a £2,000 donation to be spent on safety equipment.

The public are now being asked to support the Oldham team and make sure it receives the donation.

Volunteer and spokesman Mick Nield said: “As with all teams across England and Wales, we are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“Although we receive no government funding for our operations, we believe we are an important extension of the emergency services in our area and support the community as a whole, not just the walkers and climbers.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for us to not only obtain funds towards much-needed equipment, but to help us educate people on the full repertoire of services that their local mountain rescue team provides.

“Although the team turns out without any thought of reward or recognition, it is always pleasing to know that our contribution is appreciated. Being crowned team of the year would be a significant boost to morale.”

The team, based at the Cross Keys, Uppermill, is comprehensively trained and well-equipped for its many rescues and has the services of a doctor for medical emergencies.

Last year it received a Pride in Oldham award for its work, often in difficult conditions, on the Saddleworth moors.

As part of the partnership, Goodyear has pledged to fund the roll out of GPS navigational equipment to help track those involved in rescues more accurately and provide vital rescue support as quickly as possible.

And mountain rescue teams will also see their rescue vehicles supplied with Goodyear’s 4x4 tyres so they are well prepared for off-road action.

Goodyear’s communications specialist Anna Stanley said: “As experts in the field of safety and innovation, Goodyear is extremely proud to be supporting a life-saving organisation such as Mountain Rescue.

“By launching this award, we hope to draw attention to the fantastic work that Mountain Rescue does and reward one team with an additional donation to be spent on safety equipment.

“We hope to see the local community showing their support by placing their vote and helping them continue to provide this outstanding service.”

To vote for the Oldham Mountain Rescue team and help it to win, visit www.mygoodyear.co.uk