A second Mountain Rescue team have paid tribute to Lossiemouth-based SAR crews as they prepare to hand over to civilian operators next week.
Following the touching tribute paid by the Braemar team last week members of the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team have offered a special thank-you to the Lossiemouth-based 202 Squadron detachment.
It came following an operation in which Rescue 137 was again in action helping to locate a missing climber on Ben Nevis – who was later described as a ‘lucky, lucky man’ after being located on Tuesday morning.
In a statement issued to remind walkers of the need to have good navigation skills and proper equipment on the mountain, the team included a final tribute to the RAF rescue airmen and women.
A spokesman said: “Special thanks to the ‘Yellow Budgie’ – Rescue 137 – as this may be the last deployment to Lochaber in anger.
“The guys and gals have been brilliant over the years and it has been no different last night and today flying in difficult conditions. We will miss the helicopters, crews and banter.
“Thanks guys for all your assistance over the years and we look forward to seeing some of you in the shiny new red and white S92s.”
The Sea King will bow out of service on Tuesday. A local campaign has been launched hoping to retain one of the iconic aircraft on permanent display in Moray.
An appeal has been launched by Morayvia can be found online.