Coastguards receive rescue honour

Search team members who took part in the Ronas Hill rescue along with long-service medal recipients/Pic: Ruth Grainger

Coastguard team members involved in a major search and rescue mission to save a man lost in Shetland hills during a winter storm have been honoured.

The 33-year-old had been out on remote Ronas Hill overnight in atrocious weather when he was found collapsed.

Thirty Coastguard team members turned out in February 2007, with help from the RNLI, police and local residents. The man was carried to safety.

Chief Coastguard Rod Johnson presented the awards on Friday night.

These officers have acted in the highest traditions of the service and their island community and I am very proud of them Rod Johnson Chief Coastguard

Team members carried the man, suffering from hypothermia and exhaustion, several miles down the hillside and he was taken to hospital where he made a full recovery.

Mr Johnson said of the meritorious service awards: "These awards are made to recognise the efforts made by Coastguard rescue officers who, on a foul night on harsh terrain, showed great courage and determination to bring a lost soul back alive.

"Without air support the Coastguard teams used their skills, training and local knowledge to locate the lost walker who because of the cold was increasingly unable to help himself.

"Having found their man, the Coastguards then carried him several miles to safety at night in driving snow and in storm conditions."

He added: "These officers have acted in the highest traditions of the service and their island community and I am very proud of them."

Long-service medals were also presented to team members who have given 20 to 30 years of service.