A moorland rescue charity is likely to be more called upon than ever, according to the man who has just taken over the reins.
Ben Carter has replaced Les Wilson as the leader of Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team (CVSRT) and is predicting a busy 2015 for the service which is completely staffed by volunteers.
Mr Carter said: “Glancing at the year ahead, 2015 already has the potential to be another busy year with a number of major sporting events and community activities occurring across our operation area.
“As our name suggests, we do cover the Calder Valley, however more often than not we are called to; locate, treat and recover lost or injured people from Airedale, North and South Bradford and the North West Leeds police divisions but also the South Pennine moors around Calderdale, Keighley, Baildon, Otley and Ilkley.
“The team is well respected amongst the statutory emergency services and I’m keen for this tradition to continue.”
CVSRT is staffed entirely by over 50 unpaid volunteers and costs around £35,000 per year to remain operational. All this money comes entirely from donations and support from the community, local businesses and numerous fundraising activities – with the charity receiving no direct government funding.
Mr Carter said: “This year we will be working very hard to raise additional funds to replace one of our ageing Land Rovers, as well as meeting the increased running costs of maintaining our operational effectiveness.
“In 2016 the team will be celebrating its 50th anniversary so plans are well underway to mark this occasion by acknowledging our beginnings, celebrating the present and building for our future.”
Mr Carter replaces Mr Wilson - who lead the team for twelve months - at the helm.
Mr Wilson praised the team for their support and welcomed his successor to the post.
“I’ve had an incredible year as team leader and it’s been a privilege to work alongside such a strong team. The commitment and dedication shown by full team members and supporters alike has been very inspiring,” he added.
For information visit www.cvsrt.org.uk