Nottingham-based manufacturer of sailing clothing, Gill, has donated brand new kit worth in excess of £5,000 to the water section of Derby Mountain Rescue Team.
The rescue team had recently been deployed to Cumbria, where they, along with other teams from the Peak District Mountain Rescue Organisation, were helping victims of the severe flooding that struck the region in December. When photos of the team’s water section were circulated on social media, it was mentioned that the team was using old, second-hand equipment.
After learning about their situation, and knowing how vital the service was to the region, Gill offered the rescue team 12 of its hardwearing Pro Drysuits, which provide complete protection against the wet and cold. They also donated a further 12 new buoyancy aids, which will assist members of the rescue team as well as those in need. The total retail value of the donation came to over £5,000.
John Deverill, Managing Director of Gill, said: “When it was brought to our attention that the Derby Mountain Rescue Team was using old clothing during the floods in Cumbria, we didn’t think twice about making a donation. They work in emergency situations and save lives, so they shouldn’t have to worry about their kit. We believe our waterproof gear is the very best in the country – it’s designed for the most extreme sailing conditions on the planet – so we knew it would be perfect to keep the Derby Mountain Rescue Team safe, warm and dry. And if that can ultimately help those in need, it’s worth every penny.”
“Mountain Rescue is so much more than assisting lost walkers,” said Julian Walden, DMRT Team Leader. “With over 50 years of service to the community, Derby Mountain Rescue Team carries out lowland and rural search and rescue operations and, increasingly, we are supporting neighbouring teams in searches of waterways and the authorities in major incidents such as the Cumbria floods last week.”
Graeme Poole, DMRT Water Section Leader, added: “Without the correct kit the task of search and rescue can be more hazardous than it needs to be and is potentially unachievable. This amazing and generous donation from Gill Marine will ensure that we can put 100% trust in our equipment and therefore 100% focus on those in need.”
Derby Mountain Rescue Team is a voluntary emergency service that attends callouts in response to requests from the Police. Made up of volunteers, the team is on call 24 hours a day. Their main function is the search and rescue of missing or injured people, principally in upland or mountainous areas.