Move any mountain

WHEELIE good... Katie Johnson (left), chairman of Oldham Mountain Rescue team, receives the keys from David Anderson

Emotional day as rescue team unveil new vehicles
THE wait is finally over for Oldham Mountain Rescue team as they officially unveiled two gleaming new rescue vehicles.

A day of family fun was thrown in celebration of the occasion at their Cross Keys pub base in Uppermill yesterday.

It was the emotional culmination of 12 months of fundraising which saw the dedicated group win a special place in the hearts of locals. At a cost of £95,000, the two new Land Rovers are kitted out with winches, stretchers and roll bars and have secured the group’s future in the borough for the next 20 years.

Leader Mick Neild said: “We started fundraising in December, 2009, and over the bad snow we became a community service.

“So many people came out of the woodwork and supported us that we were able to place the order within six months — we originally thought it would take us two years. The community has adopted us, they feel it’s their team too and they’re proud to play a part.”

Youngsters took part in an abseil challenge and had their faces painted, while onlookers witnessed rescue demonstrations and got up close to search and rescue dogs. Cross Keys landlords past and present helped unveil the vehicles while members of the East Lancashire Mark Masons also joined in the celebration after their £40,000 donation.

Late members John Gardiner and John Edwards were fondly remembered by the 50-strong group. And as a nice touch, the new vehicles were dedicated in their memory.

Mick added: “Both families were there and it was really quite touching and emotional.

“We’re so sincerely grateful for the people of Oldham, they have done us proud.”

The day also served to mark 25 years at the Cross Keys.