Buxton Mountain Rescue Team has made a plea to the public keep an eye out for branded equipment after thieves broke into a private vehicle and stole a volunteer’s rescue equipment.

The incident occurred in Whaley Bridge during the night of Tuesday when a team member’s car was entered by breaking the window glass.   A quantity of personal property was taken along with equipment and clothing belonging to the rescue team.

All the equipment the volunteer had in his possession was taken, including his team radio, waterproof jackets, helmets, fleeces, protection googles and other gear.  The clothing and equipment is of little value to anyone else as it’s primarily red and clearly marked as “Mountain Rescue”.  The radio is encrypted and useless to anyone without the access code.  Whilst it’s worth nothing to the thieves it will cost Buxton M.R.T. around £1,500. to replace.  The theft of the equipment will prevent this active operational member from attending any call-outs until new items can be issued.

The whole team’s equipment is purchased thanks to donations from the general public so the team is asking everyone to keep an eye out for any kit that they may recognise.

Anyone with any information which may help catch the culprit or recover the equipment is urged to contact the police on 101.