Over 300 mountain rescuers will descend on Aviemore in September for their bi-ennial gathering. The conference, which will take place from 12th to 14th September, will see team members from across the United Kingdom and Ireland take part in workshops, practice essential skills, and talk about the future of mountain rescue in Britain. Speakers include the climber Andy Kirkpatrick and delegates will also get the chance to climb with Lochaber-based climbing whizz, Dave Macleod. The following promotional film has been made to highlight the event. Conference Chairman Jonathan Hart said, “We’re delighted with progress to date. We’re on target for…

A climber has has died after falling about 200m in Glen Einich in the Cairngorms today (Friday 4 July). Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team said the man slipped and fell while climbing with a colleague who managed to raise the alarm. The fall happened around 12:45 and both Cairngorm Mountain Rescue and a rescue helicopter from RAF Lossiemouth were sent to the scene.

Scottish Mountain Rescue has elected Simon Steer as the new Chair, taking over from Jonathan Hart who steps down after 3 years in the role. Accepting the appointment Simon, who is the Deputy Leader of the Cairngorm Team, commented, “I am delighted to accept this important role and look forward to representing our members at a challenging and exciting time for Scottish Mountain Rescue. The provision of Mountain Rescue across Scotland principally relies on voluntary funding and volunteers who are prepared to answer the call at any time of day or night year round, regardless of weather.” “Without the dedication…

The MCofS will be offering two of their popular one-day navigation courses for members in September. These are an ideal way of helping you gain or brush up on the essential skills for finding your way about in the mountains. A one-day MCofS navigation course will give you a gentle introduction to the theory, followed by a practical session on the hill. Ratios are 1:6 and there are spaces for 12 people per course. By the end you will have learned the skills of map reading and compass bearings, picked up handy hints and techniques for locating yourself on the…