Volunteers behind Leicestershire’s specialist search and rescue service received a visit this week by the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews.
The Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland PCC dropped in to Leicestershire Search and Rescue (LeicSAR) – the county’s lowland rescue unit – to find out more about the team’s vital skills and capabilities.
LeicSAR, was founded 10 years ago this November with just six people and supports the police and other emergency services in the search of vulnerable and missing people across Leicestershire and neighbouring counties when necessary.
Their efforts enhance the resilience of Leicestershire’s frontline police officers and ensure vulnerable members of the community are located quickly and safely.
During the visit, Mr Matthews met Simon Headley, chair of LeicSAR, and volunteers Rupert, team leader, and Nick, operations manager.
Mr Matthews said: “LeicSAR provides a vital service to the county and I cannot thank the volunteers enough for their time and dedication over the years.
“These highly-skilled and dedicated search volunteers make an invaluable impact on public safety and many families have them to thank for the safe and swift return of their loved-ones.
“Ten years’ service is an incredible achievement. I am proud of their work and wish them every success in the future.”
LeicSAR is made up entirely of volunteers who give their time to assist the emergency services in searching for vulnerable adults and children who go missing.
The organisation, which is available 24 hours a day, currently has 48 volunteers who train three or four times a month. Members include paramedics, first responders, drone pilots and search and rescue dogs.
There were 12 call outs in June and 5 so far in July.
The team was awarded the highly coveted Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service for their activities last year.
They rely solely on donations, sponsorship and funding grants to buy vital equipment and cover maintenance and training costs.
Anyone wishing to donate to the charity should visit: http://www.giveasyoulive.com/join/leicestershire-sar
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Media Enquiries: Sallie Blair - 01283 821012 / 07702 541401
Posted on Monday 19th July 2021