History

A Brief History about Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team

Founding Years (1959–1960s)

Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team (CBMRT) was established in 1959 when Police Sergeant Jack Powell assembled a group of ‘outdoor’ enthusiasts to respond to increasing incidents in the Brecon Beacons. Initially informal, the team consisted of police officers and local civilians using their own equipment. By 1963, the group evolved into the Police Civil Defence Mountain Rescue Team—the precursor to today’s CBMRT.

During the 1960s, callouts were infrequent, averaging fewer than five per year. Training sessions occurred once a month, and callouts relied on basic communication methods: telephones and bicycles. Equipment was sparse—just a stretcher, a loaned casualty bag, and rudimentary ropes.

Notable incidents included:

  • 1966: The team assisted in the search for a military Vulcan Aircraft that crashed into Fan Bwlch Chwyth, tragically killing all five crew members.
  • Aberfan Disaster (1966): Jack Powell was appointed Site Rescue Officer during this catastrophic event, which remains etched in South Wales’ memory.

As the Government disbanded Civil Defence in the late 1960s, the team transitioned into a civilian organisation, becoming Morlais Mountain Rescue Team, marking the next chapter of their history.

The 1970s: Growth and Donations

The 1970s saw increasing callouts, prompting the need for better equipment. Fortuitously, during a training exercise at Torpantau, a generous individual donated a 4×4 ambulance that had served at RAF Farnborough—becoming the team’s first control vehicle. The team also received radio equipment, enhancing their operational capabilities.

The 1980s: Operational Base and Tragedy

In the 1980s, CBMRT secured its operational base in Merthyr Tydfil, still home to the team today. Significant developments included collaboration with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, inspiring volunteers to join.

Notable events:

  • 1982: Heavy snowfall led the team to provide 24-hour ambulance support for three consecutive days.
  • 1983: Tragedy struck when Mike Ruddal, Team Leader of Bridgend MRT, lost his life shielding a casualty during a rockfall on Pen y Fan.
  • 1988: A team member assisted in the Lockerbie bombing recovery efforts with their search dog.

The 1990s: Technological Advancements

The 1990s brought significant technological progress. CBMRT moved from telephone callouts to a pager system, enabling faster and more reliable mobilisations. By the early 90s, annual callouts had increased to around 40 per year.

During this decade, the team supported:

  • Severe weather incidents, collaborating with the ambulance service.
  • Rope rescue training for the RSPCA to assist trapped animals.
  • Ten Tors evacuation (1996): The team helped evacuate over 2,000 young participants during severe weather on Dartmoor.

The 2000s: Modernisation and Recognition

Mobile technology became integral in the 2000s, transforming callout processes. CBMRT hosted Prince William, then Patron of Mountain Rescue England and Wales.

The 2010s: Major Incidents and Challenges

The 2010s were marked by critical incidents and a devastating fire:

  • 2012: The team contributed over 2,000 hours to the search for April Jones in Machynlleth.
  • 2013: CBMRT led civilian efforts during the hyperthermia tragedy involving five soldiers, three of whom sadly died.
  • 2015: Responded to lightning strikes on walkers, evacuating multiple casualties.
  • 2017: A fire at CBMRT’s base destroyed £250,000 worth of vehicles and equipment, forcing the team to borrow resources while maintaining operations during 140 callouts that year.

The 2020s: Recognition and Resilience

In 2020, the team supported relief efforts during Storm Dennis just as the COVID-19 pandemic hit. By this time, callouts averaged 120 per year.

Notable events:

  • In 2022, CBMRT was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service—the highest honour for voluntary groups in the UK.
  • In March 2023, the team were filmed for an episode of Coast & Country.
  • In April 2023, The Prince & Princess of Wales visited the Team as part of our 60th anniversary celebrations.
  • In December 2024, the team featured on an episode of Escape to the Country.

A Legacy of Service

From humble beginnings in 1959 to a modern, highly-trained rescue team, Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team has built a legacy of unwavering dedication to helping those in need across South Wales’ urban, rural, and mountainous regions.