Yorkshire Dales

Tuesday 8th September 2020. We were asked to supply personnel for a protracted search for Harry Harvey, 80-years, who was reported missing on Sunday 6th September 2020. An extensive search of large areas of the northern Yorkshire Dales had taken place since then by a number of Mountain Rescue Teams, North Yorkshire Police and local people.

At 0900 hours on Tuesday, 13 Cleveland Team members reported to the RV-point at the Tan Hill Inn (many thanks to the staff there for providing refreshments). We took our Incident Control Vehicle and our Mercedes-Benz of Teesside support vehicle (allowing us to leave our front-line vehicles back at Base in case of a call-out in our area whilst supporting our neighbouring Teams).

Working alongside a number of other mountain rescue teams and co-ordinated by Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team, our three search parties then commenced searches of our allocated areas. It was heavy going underfoot and conditions at the time were poor with drizzle and gradually worsening fog limiting visibility for all involved. At approximately 1040 hours we were instructed to return to the RV-point and upon arrival were greeted with the very welcome news that Harry had been located, was safe and well and was already back at Tan Hill Inn. 

We were aware that Harry is an experienced outdoor walker and was well equipped for the conditions. Another example of the benefits of being prepared for all eventualities when out on the hills. 

After a welcome warm drink and de-brief all of our Team members were able to return home and some to work. Many thanks to Swaledale MRT members for taking the time to thank us for our assistance and very well done to them for co-ordinating such a search on difficult terrain and in arduous conditions over the three days. 13 Cleveland MRT members were involved in today’s search which lasted approximately 1 hour 40 minutes (plus about a further 1.5 hours travel time each way). So a shorter day than it could have been were it not for such a great outcome. Our best wishes to Harry and to his family & friends.