EDIT: We're still collecting donations! Although we have met our target these funds make an enormous difference to Assynt MRT. This money goes directly to everything they do, from essential medical kit, training equipment, technical rescue equipment and everything else in between to ensure they are ready to respond to anything at a moment's notice.

On the evening Tuesday the 22nd of October on Cul Mor in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland there was a serious mountain incident. I was co-leading a group of four on a mountain photography workshop with Joe Cornish. While descending the mountain Joe was hit by a powerful gust of wind sending him tumbling ten meters down a scree slope. He sustained serious injuries to his neck but he is now recovering at home.

On that day Assynt Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) were invaluable. They tasked HM Coastguard Rescue 151 who lifted Joe off the mountain to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness. They also sent a team of eight and readied further team members should the helicopter have been unable to reach Joe due to low cloud. Once Joe was in the helicopter I led the remainder of the group off the mountain and part way down we met Assynt MRT.

I am trained to deal with incidents like this, but handling such a serious event for the first time in real life is demanding and stressful, particularly when a friend is involved. You can imagine how reassuring it was talking to the MRT whilst trying to look after Joe, and keep him warm. Throughout I experienced clear, professional communication and regular updates. It was an immense relief to see Joe lifted off the mountain, and when the MRT team came in view as we made our way down, dressed in their reflective gear, it really was a happy sight. Joe and I are both indebted to the team and we would be incredibly grateful for any donations to help meet their funding shortfall.

Assynt Mountain Rescue Team, like all MRTs, is volunteer-run and almost entirely funded by donations, which pay for transport costs, gear and training. MRTs make the mountains safer for us all, and we're privileged to have such a service available to us. 100% of your donations will go directly to the team. The team is currently underfunded by £15,000 and we hope the community can pull together to exceed this goal!