Search and rescue team backed by housebuilder

A search and rescue team on Dartmoor which is looking to upgrade its training facilities has received the backing of a Cornwall housebuilder.

Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team (Tavistock) has been granted a cash influx of £1,000 by leading housebuilder Persimmon Homes Cornwall.

The group plans to invest in an overhead projector for training workshops which include navigation and search techniques, casualty care, water training, radio and rope work and working with helicopters.

Garon Willis, fundraising officer for the Tavistock team, said: “Our team has been serving the local community for almost 50 years and we are so pleased to be able enhance our team training with Persimmon’s generous donation.

“Under the umbrella of Mountain Rescue England and Wales, we are formed of volunteers from all walks of life that undertake rigorous training each week.

“An important part of our training involves detailed workshops and seminars which would benefit enormously from the use of an overhead projector and screen.

“We rely heavily on public donations, supermarket collections, local events and grateful people, so we are so thankful for this kind grant from Persimmon.”

The search and rescue team is on call 24/7, 365 days a year, often being called out in atrocious weather conditions.

The donation comes as a part of Community Champions, an initiative which supports two charities with up to £1,000 each month.

Daniel Heathcote, director in charge at Persimmon Homes Cornwall, said: “The Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team are an example of a true Community Champion, dedicating time and commitment to many call outs, including helping out in Cornwall and other areas away from Dartmoor each year.”

“We hope this donation will continue to help their training sessions which are so important to the group.

“Choosing our two winners each month is always a tricky task, as we get worthy applications from right across the region in the areas in which we build.

“We would encourage those that have not been chosen to try again for a chance to become our latest Community Champion beneficiary.”

Charities and community groups can apply for funding by visiting www.persimmonhomes.com/charity

Persimmon Homes Cornwall is currently building in Plymouth at its Palmerston Heights in Derriford, where there is a range of two, three and four bedroom homes with prices starting from £172,000.

For more details about Palmerston Heights, visit www.persimmonhomes.com/palmerston-heights-10435

For more information please visit www.persimmonhomes.com