THE unsung heroes who freely give up their own time to venture into the wilds to save others have been honoured by the police.

A special awards ceremony for North Yorkshire’s search and rescue teams was held in recognition of the invaluable assistance they offer.

PC John Rushton of the force’s tactical planning unit said the awards were a way of showing their gratitude for the work of the teams.

"We greatly appreciate the support they offer us and this is our way of thanking the search and rescue teams for all their hard work," he said.

The ceremony was held at Solberge Hall, near Northallerton, and five people were presented with special achievement awards for exceptional service within their own teams.

They were: Pete Dean of the Cave and Rescue Organisation, Paul Smith of Cleveland Search and Rescue Team, Andy Crossley of Scarborough and Ryedale Search and Rescue Team, Mac Bryant of Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team, Harry Long of Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Team.

Police Achievement Awards were awarded for not only offering exceptional service within a particular search and rescue team but also working closely with the police in a strategic capacity.

Winners were: Dave Galivan of the Cave Rescue Organisation, Gari Finch of Cleveland Search and Rescue Team, Andy Crossley of Scarborough and Ryedale Search and Rescue Team, Paul Denning of Swaledale Mountain Rescue and Tony Dean of Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Team.

Chief Constable Grahame Maxwell said: "I am very pleased that we are able to show our appreciation for the dedicated support we receive from the search and rescue teams.

"They do a fantastic job and I thank every one of them for the help they offer North Yorkshire Police whenever we may need it."