Rescue team called out on Christmas Day
Volunteers from Ochils Mountain Rescue Team got a Christmas morning surprise when they were called out to assist a stranded hillwalker.
The volunteers were drafted in to help police after the walker got lost in bad weather whilst on Dumyat.
Team search managers sent a number of teams to different locations on the popular hillwalking area to check it as low cloud set in.
Three team members who were enjoying a Christmas family walk on Dumyat immediately began a search with all members of their group.
A short time later one of the group reported hearing calls for help and successfully located the walker on the north side of the hill. He was not on one of the paths up to Dumyat.
Team members were then sent to the location to pick the walker up and take him back to their vehicle.
They returned to their families at around 1pm.
Assistant Chief Constable Malcolm Graham said: “I would like to pass on my thanks to the volunteers who gave up time with their families on Christmas Day to quickly respond to reports of a hillwalker being lost.
“Thanks to their efforts, the individual was traced safe and well.”
Kevin Mitchell of Ochils MRT added: “It’s just a reminder that, whilst our team members are all volunteers, we are available 24/7, 365 days a year.”
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Alexander Stewart has urged residents to stay safe, keep vigilant and always be correctly equipped when venturing into the hills as he backed Ochils and Killin Mountain Rescue Teams last week..
He said: “I’m enormously supportive of the Ochils and Killin Mountain Rescue Teams; all highly–trained and experienced volunteers who act selflessly when called out in search of lost or injured climbers.
“I would like to remind one and all that if you do venture out into the hills or open country post–festivities or for a New Year’s hike, please ensure that you are properly clothed with plenty of water, energy–giving nutrition and that you remain aware that the weather conditions may change extremely quickly due to the terrain.
“Also, having a map and compass as well as the ability to use them is absolutely essential.
“The mountains and open country are also virtually guaranteed not to support any mobile phone signal, so remember to let friends and family know where you are going and very importantly; when you plan to be back.”