THE Ochils Mountain Rescue Team received its second Land Rover just in time for a double rescue.

The arrival – thanks to help from St John Scotland, EDF Renewables and its own fundraising efforts – helped the local search and rescue team with a busy festive period.

They were called out simultaneously to two separate rescues – one on The Law and the other on Dumyat – which saw the need for both front-line vehicles.

They were carried out successfully with assistance from Rescue 177 Sea King helicopter from HMS Gannet Prestwick and the neighbouring Lomond MRT.

Douglas Dow from St John Scotland and Graeme West from EDF officially handed over the new vehicle on Saturday (24 January) at the team’s rescue base near Fishcross.

Team leader, Kevin Mitchell, said: “We are grateful for the continued commitment and support for the St John Scotland who have been Scottish Mountain Rescue’s main supporter for many years. We are indebted to EDF Renewables who have supported the Land Rover appeal and also the day to day running of the team.

“In addition we get unstinting support for the people of the Hillfoots and surrounding areas for not only our mountain rescue work but also our community support during adverse weather etc.” Mr Dow, chancellor of St John Scotland, said: “We are delighted once again to support Ochil Mountain Rescue Team, as part of our rolling programme of supplying and replacing vehicles for all of Scotland’s voluntary mountain rescue movement.

“It is really gratifying to learn that the new vehicle has been in action, even before the official handover.”