TWENTY-one members of the North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team were presented with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal last Friday by Mike Davis, the Mayor of Okehampton.

The presentation ceremony was attended by local dignitaries, town councillors, friends and families of the medal recipients.

The presentation was preceded by speeches from Tony Clark, retired Commandant of Okehampton Camp, who talked about the history of the NDSRT, and David Stoneman, the team leader, who explained the current role of the team.

This was followed by a short film about mountain rescue and a slide show depicting members of the team past and present.

After the medal ceremony, Andy Aiano, chairman of the NDSRT, toasted the Queen and gave thanks to all those involved and to the guests.

He went on to say how much of an honour it was for the team, and the work it had done as a 999 service, to be recognised by Her Majesty. Mention was also made of the team's move to new premises in the near future and the need of raising funds to purchase and fit-out the new building.

The Queen's Jubilee medal was awarded to members of emergency and rescue organisations, who had completed five years or more service.

The NDSRT is more than 40 years old and has assisted many hundreds of missing and injured persons, not only on Dartmoor, but also in rural and urban areas across the south west of England.

The team is a charity and entirely funded by public donation and community grants.

For people interested in the history of the NDSRT, Paul Vachon, a past controller of the team, will be giving a talk to the Devonshire Association at the Okement Centre on Thursday, August 16 at 7pm.

All are welcome. There is no admission charge but any donations will be given to the team.