A SEARCH and mountain rescue team is looking for new recruits to join its ranks.

Teesdale & Weardale Search & Mountain Rescue Team are on the lookout for new members to help deal with an average of 40 call outs per year which span an area from Castle Eden Dene, in Peterlee to rural Tan Hill, in the far corners of Teesdale.

The team currently has 36 voluntary members but ideally hopes to have 40.

PR officer Scott Bisset said: “You do not need to be a mountaineer to join a mountain rescue team.

“A healthy interest in outdoor activities, along with the ability to use a map and compass and be fit enough to be on the hill all day with kit goes a long way to making you a team member.”

During a recruit’s first probationary year, they will receive training on search methods, water safety, and casualty care as well as other skills which means a commitment to training is required as well as the need to attend fund raising events to support the charity.

Mr Bisset said the team were ideally looking to train six members this year and warned applicants that the role is a long-term commitment that can be both physically and mentally challenging.

He said call outs that had stood out to him have been where a loved one is reunited with family.

He said: “Mentally, you may need to search all day or night and then deal with a seriously ill, injured or dead person at the end.

“We would never try to sell this 'job' to anyone. You have to want to do it to help other people.

“It's not about being a hero, it's about giving something back to your community.

“We actually spend most of our active time searching for missing persons in low level or suburban areas.”

He added: “Applicants can ideally bring something to the team, such as medical knowledge, climbing or kayaking ability but not necessarily as a simple love of the great outdoors can be adequate.

“Without this team Durham Police would struggle to look for a missing person anywhere in the county as they simply would not have the manpower, skills or equipment to search and rescue. We do.”

Applications must be received by the end of October. For more information visit twsmrt.org.uk or search for them on Facebook.