Welcome and Introduction

Welcome to the Ochils MRT web site, where we would like you to find out more about the voluntary work we do in the Search and Rescue of missing or injured walkers, either in the Ochils or the surrounding lowlands.

The Ochils MRT is a voluntary body that relies on public donation for funding. Although there is some funding from statutory bodies, this funding only covers basic equipment. It does not cover costs involved in training, administration, vehicles or specialist equipment.

The Ochils MRT is affiliated to the Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland, which comprises of representatives from the twenty six mountain rescue teams in Scotland, the Search and Rescue Dog Association, the Police, the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy, HM Coastguard, Bristows Helicopters, the Mountaineering Council of Scotland, the Scottish Mountain Safety Group, the Scottish Ambulance Service and the Scottish Sports Council. The map shows roughly the area's covered by each team (click on the map to enlarge).

The Ochils MRT , along with the Killin and Lomond MRT's, local SARDA handlers and the local police, form Central Scotland Mountain Rescue Group, with the aim to provide the best for Mountain Rescue in the Central Scotland area by advising the Chief Constable on rescue needs.

A little bit of background.

The Ochils MRT was founded in 1971 by a group of local people who wished, and saw the need for, mountain rescue provision in the Ochils. From a public meeting in 1971, a group of experienced mountaineers, hill walkers and local volunteers founded the Ochils Mountain Rescue Team.

From therein they raised funds by holding dances, collections and approaching local companies for donations. Training began in earnest with exercises in the Ochils taking place on a regular basis.

Membership of the Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland followed shortly thereafter and the team was recognised as an official mountain rescue team.