Peak District mountain rescue stalwart retires after 36 years

Malc Needham, who joined the Buxton Mountain Rescue Team in 1977, stepped down after a call out to Jacob’s Ladder in July and moved to a farmhouse in the French countryside with his partner, Christine, this week.

Roger Bennett, chairman of the team, said: “Malc has served the team with a dedication equalled by very few and has served as a charity trustee and an operational deputy leader for many of his 36 years of service.

“But if that was not enough, his construction knowledge and practical building skills have been called on many times saving the team thousands of pounds.

“Malc has overseen the construction of two team buildings and has had the project lead on the conversion of several operational response vehicles.

“Malc was also responsible for designing the team’s bright red collection boxes and over the years has manufactured an estimated 400 units.”

Following training on July 18, Malc was presented with a certificate and a plaque commemorating his time with the team.

Roger added: “Malc had the knack of taking ideas and turning them into reality. He will be sorely missed, but all the team members wish him and Christine the very best of luck and success in their shared retirement.”