A MAN who changed the face of mountain rescue in Millom has been laid to rest by his friends, family, and colleagues.

For more than three decades Dr. Mick Leverton gave his time, medical knowledge, and dedication to the Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team (DFMRT). During his time with the team Dr. Leverton championed modern medical innovations, undoubtedly saving many lives in the process.

On January 18 he passed away peacefully at home at the age of 81. One of those who knew Dr. Leverton best was president of the DFMRT, Peter Jackson, 71, of Millom.

He said: "We had a very good relationship. He was a very warm-hearted man. He was larger than life."

It was in 1978 that Dr. Leverton joined the the then called Millom Fell Rescue Team as the team doctor. He later became the group's medical officer when Millom amalgamated with the Furness MRT in the early 2000s.

Among one of the many medical developments Dr. Leverton brought to rescue operations in south Cumbria was the introduction of lightweight medical gas cylinders. By reducing the weight of equipment rescuers had to carry, incredibly valuable time and effort could be saved when searching Cumbria's many remote fells.

Team leader of the DFMRT, Mike Margeson, 59, of Kirkby, also paid tribute to the lasting legacy of Dr. Leverton.

He said: "Mick did a tremendous job with the team as our medical officer. During his time with us he was always trying to innovate equipment and the techniques that we use."

Dr. Leverton's contribution to Millom extended beyond his involvement with the local MRT as he practised for many years as a GP in the town.

In later years Dr. Leverton was seen less on the fells, but, his passion for the mountain rescue team remained as strong as ever. On the morning of the day he died he was seen emptying collecting tins raising money for the DFMRT.

Mr Margeson added: "The best description of Mick is he was much loved by everybody. He was a curious, enthusiastic, innovative and supportive person. A very strong personality and will be much missed.

Dr. Leverton's funeral was held at St. George's Church in Millom on Monday morning (29). Team member John Wealthall said more than 100 people attended, included 16 members of the mountain rescue team.

Any donations in memory of Dr. Leverton can be made to the DFMRT through the group's website, at www.dfmrt.org.uk.