THE future of a life-saving charity has been put in jeopardy by the continuing foot-and-mouth crisis.

Just weeks ago the Swaledale Fell Rescue Organisation opened a brand-new HQ at Catterick Garrison, paid for with more than £420,000 of National Lottery money.

But the team still has to rely on voluntary donations to maintain its emergency operation, and with most summer agricultural shows called off because of foot-and-mouth, that income is now in danger of drying up.

"Most of our fund-raising takes place at the shows and we need about £10,000 a year to stay in operation," said the team's secretary, Mac Bryant.

A collection in Richmond market place at the weekend raised £594 and now the team is appealing for more support.

The organisation, which has now been in existence for 30 years, provides an emergency rescue service in the Swaledale and Wensleydale area for 24-hours a day, 365 days of the year. It has no paid staff and all 50 volunteers give their time at their own expense.

However, £10,000 is needed to keep the team going each year, to meet training and equipment costs.

The organisation has some reserves of funding but they are only enough to keep the team going for the current year.

"If we can't keep the money coming in there will be a major financial crisis for the team early next year and that would put at risk our ability to operate at all," said Mr Bryant.

"With the restrictions caused by foot-and-mouth there have been fewer people walking in the Dales so this year has not been a busy one for us - but we still have to train and be ready for anything."

One option being considered is allowing its new headquarters - with meeting room, kitchen and other facilities - to be used by other local groups.

Any interested groups should contact Mr Bryant on (01748) 824258. Anyone wishing to make a donation should send it to the DFRO care of 27 West Road, Melsonby, Richmond, DL10 5HD.

l Foot-and-mouth round-up: Page 3