Alessia's West Highland Way for Oban Mountain Rescue team

During the summer of 2022 Alessia and I climbed 10 munros raising money for the families of Ukraine. During one of our climbs up Beinn Achaladair we were caught by unexpected bad weather and ended up at the top of this munro with zero visibility. Quite a frightening prospect for a 10 year old. This is when I am thankful for carrying all of the equipment I do. Battery pack, bivvy bag, extra food and water, first aid kit, head torch, maps, etc.

Sitting it out for an hour I quickly realised the weather wasn't lifting any time soon and we were going to run out of daylight. We needed help. Calling the emergency services we were quickly put through to Police Mountain Rescue. Oban Mountain Rescue took the call out and at least 10 of the volunteers came out to help us. We were very lucky that HM Coastguard Helicopter #151 came to our rescue. Being airlifted to the bottom of the hill where the OMR team were awaiting us.

Oban Mountain Rescue Team provides search and rescue cover for a huge area from bridge of Orchy to Campbeltown, including the islands as far as Mull and Jura. There are 42 active members all of whom are unpaid volunteers dedicating their time and expertise to those in need. This service is invaluable to our area where many people - local and tourists alike love to come and walk.

We are very thankful to OMR and grateful that so many people give up their time to volunteer. Our West Highland Way walk, is 96 miles from Millingavie to Fort William and to give thanks to this service we would like to raise as much money as possible. All of the funds raised going to OMR to keep their invaluable service going and provide the funding for the important equipment needed during a rescue.