2024 New Recruits

 

To ensure that we have enough operational members trained and ready for call-out cover, Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team (CVSRT) run regular recruitment programmes to look for members of our community who would like to apply to join the team. 

 

All aspirant candidates go through a three-stage selection process;

•           Application form

•           Open evening

•           Hill skills assessment

 

This selection process allows CVSRT to check candidates’ suitability to progress onto the 12-month training programme. 

 

On Saturday 13th January, 14 candidates arrived at our base in Mytholmroyd (The Rescue Post) ready for the final phase of the selection process.  This involved a challenging day on the hill with navigation, teamwork, and stamina all on test. 

 

The assessment started at 10:00 with a personal kit check to make sure all the candidates were suitably equipped for a full day on the hill. 

 

The candidates were then split into groups and set off for a morning designed to test navigation skills.  A strict rule on the assessment was that no electronic devices can be used to aid navigation, meaning everyone had to rely on their ability to use a paper map and compass. 

 

Following a brief stop for lunch, the groups continued out on the hills with further navigation assessment, continuing into nightfall.

 

As the night came the final challenge was an exercise call-out to assist with transporting an injured casualty.  All the candidates were tasked to work together, under guidance, to transfer the casualty onto a stretcher and carry them across the moor to awaiting team vehicles.  

 

At the end of a long day, all that was left was a ride back down the valley in team vehicles, and back to The Rescue Post for a well-earned brew and a de-brief.

 

Many thanks to everyone who applied to join CVSRT this year and those who attended the hill assessment as well as all team members out supporting and assessing. It was a tough day for some, but all the applicants put in an excellent effort.  

 

With lots of strong candidates this year it was a difficult decision.  However, after deliberation we have invited 9 new members to join the team this year – Sue Eyre, Jay Graney, Hannah Wilson, Jon Barrett, Jess Johnstone, James Figg, India Bird, Anthony Smith, Miles Falkingham.  Congratulations. 

 

While the new recruits have been regularly training for several weeks, we were faced with a new challenge of getting everyone together, at one time, to take their first group photo.

 

We also welcome back Trisha Merrington, who has returned to CVSRT, and will be training with the new recruits for a few months before re-joining the team operationally. 

 

Throughout the year there are plenty of opportunities for aspiring members to join our training sessions as a casualty or a dogsbody.  This provides an invaluable insight into how the team operate and what is involved in becoming an operational member.  For anyone wanting to join the team we would recommend getting involved in these sessions.  For more information, please visit our website https://www.cvsrt.org.uk/the-team/join-us.