‘Lessons learnt’ as three teenage boys rescued by Mourne mountain team

‘Lessons learnt’ as three teenage boys rescued by Mourne mountain team

29 January 2025

THE dramatic rescue of three teenagers in the high Mournes on Saturday evening after a sudden change in weather conditions has prompted an appeal for people commenting on what happened online to be respectful.

The alarm was raised just before 5.45pm when police requested help from the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team to assist the teenagers who got into difficulty on Slieve Donard.

Setting off at midday for an adventure on the Glen River when weather conditions were good, the 16 year olds had reached the Ice House when they decided to walk to the top of Donard.

On the way to the summit and with conditions and light deteriorating, one of the group decided to return to Newcastle. 

The other two persevered and reached the summit, only to come unstuck due to conditions on their attempt at a direct descent on snow covered ground.

Without any knowledge of the peak, the pair wisely found their way back to the summit shelter and called for help. 

As the mountain rescue team’s emergency response swung into action, it became clear that one of the party had reached safety and only two remained at the summit. 

The rescue team volunteers reached the teenagers just after 7.30pm battling challenging conditions, with the duo promptly treated for exposure.

They were also refuelled, rewarmed and prepped for a walk-out and shortly after 9pm they had reached rescue team vehicles for a transfer to road access, base and further care.

The rescue team said it wished the adventurers well and that with “lessons learnt looks forward to seeing them back in the hills”.

A total of 14 rescue team members responded and were stood down at 10.20pm.

When news of the rescue was posted online alongside a video illustrating the bitterly cold and challenging conditions, almost 260 people commented.

Some of the posts criticised the teenagers for heading out, while others praised the rescue team volunteers describing them as “superheroes”.

While welcoming the posts, the rescue team said it “genuinely appreciates respectful debate and the contribution it can make to furthering the team’s objective of mountain safety”.

But the organisation addressed what it described as “some common concerns” particularly around the risks the rescue team volunteers face and the costs involved.

It said no one ventured into the mountains expecting to run into trouble and that for those who do, it can be a frightening experience. 

“When commenting, please keep in mind that you might not have the full picture of the situation. Even well-intentioned comments can sometimes be misconstrued or hurtful, so we ask everyone to be mindful when posting,” said the rescue team response.

“Our team trains extensively to minimise risks and ensure the safety of everyone involved. While we can’t remove all risks entirely, what might seem extreme to others is second nature to us thanks to our skill, preparation, and experience.”

The rescue team post added: “We’re proud to be an entirely voluntary service, supported by the generosity of the community through donations. We never ask for payment – our goal is simply to help those in need without hesitation or limitation.”