CALLOUT 31 – Call to assist Greater Manchester Police

A casualty who lives with dementia had been missing overnight since around 22:00 (Sunday), and was last seen on CCTV around 0920 this morning (Monday) headed towards local woodland that they often frequent near the River Roch, Rochdale.

Team members joined the police who had officers as well as dog and air assets already searching the vicinity. Whilst the team was deploying, Bolton Mountain Rescue Team was also contacted to provide additional resources due to the lower mid-week availability of team members and for what could potentially become a prolonged search.

Team members who were on scene were tasked to conduct a hasty search along the edge of the water line and adjacent woodland whilst further formal search plans were drawn up with the police. Very fortunately, during their hasty search, team members came across the casualty, a little dazed, cold, and confused, but alive and well!

The casualty was checked over and subsequently walked out to the safety of the Bolton team vehicle (thanks again for your support!), where they were transported to meet with an ambulance and subsequently taken into hospital for further care.

A huge success and positive outcome to what could have easily been so different. This truly goes to show what the time, training, and experience are all for. For anyone unaware, please take a moment and have a look at the information to support police and partner search agencies in the event of a venerable person going missing. https://www.gmp.police.uk/notices/hp/herbert-protocol