Last week Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team (CVSRT) had a busy yet unusual week. Instead of operating on the hills and moors, we found ourselves assisting much closer to home.

 

On Monday, 18th November 2024, with forecasts predicting significant snowfall, CVSRT, in collaboration with West Yorkshire Police (WYP), placed dedicated crews on standby. These teams, along with their specially equipped vehicles, were prepared to be deployed across the Calder Valley if needed. Thankfully, no serious incidents arose that required our assistance.

 

A few days later, on Saturday, 23rd November 2024, Storm Bert brought a drastic change in weather. A rise in temperature led to significant snowmelt, compounded by heavy rainfall, which resulted in flooding across several areas of the valley

 

Working alongside West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS), CVSRT deployed teams to the worst-hit areas, from Todmorden to Mytholmroyd. Our volunteers carried out welfare checks on flooded homes and assisted a driver who

was trapped in floodwaters.

 

During the cover we were also assisted by our neighbouring team, Holme Valley Mountain Rescue Team (HVMRT). As always, their support is very much appreciated.

 

Thankfully, there were no reports of significant injuries. However, our thoughts are with those whose homes and businesses have been affected by the storm.

 

CVSRT operates entirely through donations and community support. It costs over £50,000 annually to remain operational, and we receive no direct government funding. Your contributions enable us to continue providing assistance whenever called upon. Visit www.cvsrt.org.uk to learn more or to donate.

 

As we enter December, it’s essential to prepare for winter driving. The UK Government website offers a dedicated section with tips and advice to help you stay safe. Visit www.gov.uk/government/news/make-time-for-winter--2 for more information.

 

#1584 Storm Bert - Flooding In Calder Valley

13:57 Sat 23rd Nov 2024

#51 of 2024

Duration 6 hrs 57 minutes

In attendance;

9 CVSRT

4 HVMRT

WYFRS

WYP

At 21:58 on Saturday, 9th November 2024, Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team (CVSRT) received a request from Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) to assist with the extraction of a runner who had fallen on Ickornshaw Moor, Cowling, sustaining a knee injury.

 

As this incident occurred close to the boundary with our colleagues at Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association (UWFRA), North Yorkshire Police (NYP) reached out to them as well. On request UWFRA promptly deployed their team to support us.

 

UWFRA members arrived first on scene, providing initial medical care.  Upon arrival of remaining UWFRA and CVSRT members, the injured knee was immobilised and protected using a vacuum splint. The casualty was then transferred onto a stretcher and, with the assistance of a simple back-rope system, carried off the moor to the awaiting ambulance.

 

Thank you to UWFRA for their invaluable support on what was our 50th callout of the year.

 

#1583 Ickornshaw Moor

21:58 Sat 9th Nov 2024

#50 of 2024

Duration 3hrs 29 mins

In attendance;

10 CVSRT

11 UWFRA

YAS