The dale’s fell rescue team is launching a recruitment drive.
Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team will hold two online meetings in September for recruits who will start in January 2026.
The meetings on September 8 and September 22, will explain what the team does, what it expects from members and the recruitment process.
A spokesman from the team said joining is a big commitment.
They added: “On top of callout attendance our team members train regularly to maintain and continue developing skills, even once in the team. Trainees will also have regular additional training sessions throughout their first year.
“As a charity we also rely on team members to help with fundraising, checking and maintaining equipment, and the general running of the organisation.
“Teamwork is fundamental to what we do. All rescues and searches are coordinated efforts, often with external stakeholders such as the emergency services. You need to be a team player, willing to learn from and work with others, follow instructions, and to lead when required but not always be the leader.”
Those interested will also have to undergo a DBS check.
The spokesman said: “We operate 24/7, 365 days a year, rain or sun shine, from semi-urban areas to some of England’s most remote and unforgiving uplands in the North Pennines.
“You don’t need to be a professional mountain leader, but you do need to enjoy being in the outdoors and be prepared to operate in all conditions and terrain.
“For the recruitment process we expect applicants to have basic navigation skills such as reading a map and using a compass to take bearings and measure distances. Advanced navigation will be taught during training but we need a solid base to start from.”
To register, email [email protected]
