New Waterproof Kit to Help Northumberland Mountain Rescue Volunteers Stay Safe in All Weathers

The operator of the Tyne Tunnels, TT2, has donated £5,000 to a volunteer search and rescue organisation that serves one of England’s largest and most remote regions, helping the charity replace essential personal protective equipment that has become worn through years of frontline use.

The Tyne Tunnels Community Fund, managed by TT2, is buying new, branded, operational waterproof jackets and trousers for some of the 40 volunteer rescuers at the Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team (NNPMRT).

The specialist PPE clothing is essential for keeping the team warm, dry and safe during often lengthy and challenging search and rescue operations across the North East region.

The organisation’s current waterproof clothing has reached the end of its lifespan, leaving some members struggling in poor weather.

The new kit will help ensure they can continue delivering their vital 24/7 service, supporting the Police, Ambulance and Fire & Rescue Services.

The team was formed in 1966 following a tragedy in the Cheviot Hills where two shepherds died in a blizzard and has since responded to thousands of incidents.

NNPMRT has expressed how grateful it is for the support, describing the funding as “desperately needed” and a huge boost to morale and safety.

Ninette Edwards, deputy team leader at Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team, adds:

“We are extremely grateful to TT2 for helping fund this important waterproof clothing. It will ensure we can respond safely to incidents in Northumberland and Tyne & Wear, round the clock.

“Our volunteers operate in harsh environments during training and on incidents, often for sustained periods so it’s vital to keep them warm and dry so they can continue their
searches in rural and urban areas, provide medical care to casualties, operate rope systems, pilot drones and carry stretchers.

“Our red jackets with mountain rescue logos ensure that the emergency services and members of the public can clearly identify us.”

Anyone needing help from The Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team should dial 999, ask for the Police and request a mountain rescue.

CEO at TT2, Adrian Wallace, said:

“When we heard about the team’s requirement for new PPE we were only too happy to help. Northumberland has vast, remote landscapes stretching from the Cheviots, to forests and moorland where help can be hours away without this specialist team which fills that gap, providing a critical, life-saving safety net for both locals and visitors.”

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