Home-builders turn rescuers during Three Peaks training supporting mountain rescue efforts
Home-builders turn rescuers during Three Peaks training supporting mountain rescue efforts
A team from Castle Green Homes, currently training for the gruelling Three Peaks Challenge, unexpectedly became rescuers themselves while descending Snowdon, highlighting the vital work of mountain rescue services.
The group, which is raising funds for Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Organisation (OVMRO) and two other charities, encountered a real-life emergency during a recent training hike. Operations Director Richard Williams said the team had passed three young women near the summit and noticed, after descending about two and a half miles, that they hadn’t followed.
“We couldn’t see any torches or signs of them, so we turned back. We found them lost, one with a twisted ankle, no torches, no water, and unsure of what to do,” Williams recounted. “We helped them down safely. I just kept thinking — if that were my daughter, I’d want someone to help.”
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The incident underscores the critical role of OVMRO, one of three charities to benefit from Castle Green’s June 26 Three Peaks Challenge. The volunteer-led organisation responded to 178 callouts last year — nearly one every other day — across rugged North Wales terrain including Tryfan, the Glyderau, Moel Siabod, and the Carneddau.
Chris Lloyd, OVMRO’s press officer, emphasised the importance of preparation before heading into the mountains. “People don’t set out expecting an accident. But accidents can happen to anyone,” he said. “Know your route, carry a map and compass, pack a torch — not your phone — and have essential items like water, food, a first aid kit, and a roll-up shelter.”
He noted that many rescues are avoidable with basic planning, navigation skills, and proper equipment. “Being stuck without essentials can quickly become life-threatening.”
Founded in 1965, Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue has been at the forefront of innovation in search and rescue, including creating the first national mountain rescue first aid course and contributing to the development of callout software and mobile phone tracking systems used nationwide. Their life-saving missions have also been featured on the BBC’s SOS Extreme Rescues.
Castle Green’s Three Peaks Challenge also supports mental health charity Chasing the Stigma and Prostate Cancer UK. The team hopes their experience highlights the importance of the causes — and the very real impact of the funds they’re raising.
