A FASCINATING book has been produced by Oldham Mountain Rescue Team to mark their 50 years of helping the community.
The 136-page book is packed with the personal accounts and offers an intimate insight into the vital role they play supporting police, fire, and ambulance services.
It traces the team’s formation in the harrowing wake of a tragic accident which saw three rover scouts lose their lives in April 1964, and lead to formation of the Peak District Mountain Rescue organisation.
Later that year, Oldham Rover Crew decided to start Oldham Rover Mountain Rescue Team, which is now the much-admired volunteer OMRT.
The book is filled with dramatic pictures showing everything from members engaged in rescues and safety techniques to the latest hi-tech developments and equipment used worldwide.
The book also reveals the close, binding friendship between the team and their loyalty and appreciation of support from the public.
Peter Hyde, who celebrates his 50th year with the team this year, said: “Hopefully readers and advertisers who have supported the book will get a taste of the highs and lows of being a volunteer in Oldham’s very own mountain rescue team.
“Without the support of the people of Oldham and the surrounding villages we wouldn’t exist. We owe them everything so I hope as many people as possible get to see a copy and pass it on to family and friends.”
Stalwart team member Dave Allport took on the mammoth task of editing the book, backed by the design skills of Jamie Beard.
He explained: “I started by asking team members, past and present, if they would write something about how they came to join the team, their time and experiences.
“It took far longer than I expected… but for those who replied, the book is their story.”
The book, ‘50 Years’, is available at pubs and shops across Saddleworth and a small donation for OMRT would be welcomed.
Find out more about the team online: www.omrt.org.uk
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