PICTURES: Long-serving members of Assynt Mountain Rescue Team awarded King Charles III Coronation Medal
Long-standing members of the Assynt Mountain Rescue Team have been awarded the King’s Coronation Medal.
Sutherland Lord-Lieutenant Patrick Marriott presented the medals at a ceremony held during an open day hosted by the team for family and friends last Saturday.
Emergency personnel who have been in paid, retained, or voluntary service for five years on the coronation date of May 6, 2024, are being honoured with the medal.
A special presentation of a personalised cup from Highland Stoneware and a card were also made to one of the team’s longest serving , Jim Sudd, whose radio call sign is “Assynt Jim”.
Mr Sudd first joined the team in 1985 and initially served as a volunteer until 1989, when he returned south to spend a number of years with the Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team.
He returned to Assynt for a further 24 years, from 1999 to 2023, serving as equipment officer, medical officer, and deputy team leader.
Guests at the open day were treated to a number of demonstrations in the afternoon, including the use of the team’s dogs from the Search and Rescue Dog Association (Scotland) and the use of drones from the Search and Rescue Aerial Association, as well as how to “package and transport” casualties.
Some of the younger folk became honorary team members for the day and participated in a number of fun activities.
A team spokesperson said: “We would like to thank everyone who came along and made it a day to remember, even the rain and midges stayed away for us! Thanks also go to the Inchnadamph Hotel, who generously gave us the use of their function room and provided tea and coffee throughout the day.
Donations can be made at:https://assynt-mountain-rescue-team.raisely.com
