Last updated 11:43, Friday, 24 October 2008

A THREAT that mountain rescue teams might have to pay to use their radios has been lifted.

At present the volunteer teams use a special frequency to communicate, which is provided free of charge.

But the government’s communications watchdog, Ofcom, is consulting on changes with a view to applying market forces to the radio spectrum.

This prompted fears that mountain rescue teams would have to pay, eating into precious funds.

But now Ofcom has issued a statement ruling out such a move, saying: “Mountain rescue teams are covered by arrangements with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and do not pay any fees for the use of these channels.

“Ofcom has no plans to impose a charge on mountain rescue teams.”

Volunteers launched a campaign against charges.

Cumbrian mountaineer Sir Chris Bonington was among those signing a petition to the Prime Minister urging a rethink.

Karen Frith, a search dog handler with the Penrith Mountain Rescue Team, said charges could have cost rescue teams in the Lake District £10,000 a year.