THE future of a charity that does life-saving work has been put in jeopardy by the foot-and-mouth crisis.

Just weeks ago, the Swaledale Fell Rescue Organisation opened a new headquarters at Catterick Garrison, paid for with more than £425,000 of National Lottery money.

But the team still has to rely on donations to maintain its emergency operation.

With the majority of summer agricultural shows cancelled because of foot-and-mouth, that income is in very real danger of drying up.

"Most of our fundraising takes place at the shows and we need about £10,000 a year to stay in operation," said the team's secretary, Mac Bryant yesterday.

A collection in Richmond market place at the weekend raised £594 for the organisation and now the team is appealing for more support with future fundraising.

The organisation, which has been in existence for about 30 years, provides an emergency rescue service in the Swaledale and Wensleydale area for 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.

It has no paid staff and is run by 50 volunteers, but about £10,000 is needed to keep the team going each year, to meet training costs, and obtain, maintain and renew, equipment.

The organisation has some funding reserves, but only enough to for this year.

"If we can't keep the money coming in there will be a major financial crisis for the team early next year, and that would put at risk our ability to operate," said Mr Bryant.

"With the restrictions caused by foot-and-mouth there have been fewer people walking in the Dales, so this year has not been a busy one for us - but we still have to train and be ready for anything that could happen."

One option the organisation is now working on, is allowing its new headquarters - complete with meeting room, kitchen and other facilities - to be used by other local groups.

Any groups interested in the idea should contact Mr Bryant on (01748) 824258.

Anyone wishing to make a donation should send it to the Swaledale Fell Rescue Organisation, care of 27 West Road, Melsonby, Richmond, DL10 5HD.