A?SURGERY in Okehampton is supporting North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team (NDSART) by donating a laptop computer.

The computer and software will allow better planning and co-ordination of the team when out on a search and rescue mission.

The team does not just rescue those who get lost on the moor, they also find members of the community who are confused, due to illnesses such as dementia, who get lost in towns and villages.

The donation was made by the Okement Surgery, which since 2004 has been a part of Okehampton — but many are still unaware of its existence.

The surgery, is housed in Okehampton Community Hospital, and has its entrance just next to the bus stop. For those coming by car they can use the hospital car park.

The surgery is open from 8.30am to 6pm and appointments can be booked by phoning 01837 658050. There is late night opening on Thursdays so that those who cannot get to see the doctor during the day can come in the evening.  

Dr Will Sherlock first remembers Okehampton when he was lucky enough to participate in Ten Tors — he never thought at the time that 24 years later he would be working as a GP in the town: 'I'm really proud to be able to support the volunteers of the North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team.

'When we did Ten Tors, my memories are often of the wet and cold. We were comforted by the thought of those "steely" volunteers in their bright waterproofs and LandRovers, ready to help us if needed.

'Thankfully, we have never had to call on their emergency service but it's fitting that as part of Okement Surgery I can give something back to those who are there to help us if we got into trouble.'

Dr Sherlock is pictured on the right, presenting the laptop to the controller of the NDSRT, Paul Vachon.