Yetholm walkers fund rescue tools in memory of friend Craig

The Romany Ramblers made the generous donation to the Border Search and Rescue Unit last month in a fitting gesture to honour the late Craig Fraser.

Craig was a member of Yetholm Church and an enthusiastic hill walker, who collapsed and died in 2007 whilst out walking with the group. The Ramblers accumulated the money during their walking weekend events which, until recently, they held every May.

Members of the Borders Search and Rescue team visited the village last month to collect the cheque and to meet Craig’s widow Stella, his daughter Fiona and members of the Romany Ramblers. The group felt the money should benefit the walkers who visit the area each year.

Borders Search and Rescue volunteer Damon Rodwell said: “The new light–weight ground anchors the Ramblers have funded will make a huge difference when we have to carry kit in for a stretcher evacuation on steep ground, as they are replacing heavy steel stakes that had to be lugged in, along with a sledge hammer.

“We have very strong historic links with Yetholm – the team was founded 53 years ago by the village policeman, and it was a real pleasure to be back among old friends again. We’re extremely grateful for what is an exceptionally generous gift from a relatively small group.”