West Cornwall Search & Rescue Team is heading onto the international stage, with a small group of members travelling to Norway to compete in the SAR Games from 24–26 April 2026.

Established in 1975, the SAR (Search and Rescue) Games is an annual international competition focused on search and rescue and first aid skills, testing participants across a range of realistic scenarios.

Team Chair Andy Brelsford said:
“We are very excited to be entering a team in this year’s SAR Games in Norway. It will be our first appearance on the international stage. The event gives us a fantastic opportunity to meet and compete with rescuers from other countries, while proudly representing West Cornwall in a friendly but competitive environment.”

Team Leader Saffa Perry, who will be travelling to Norway, added:
“The games involve a mix of skills we use in real-life search and rescue operations, including navigation, communication, search techniques, first aid, stretcher handling and, of course, teamwork.”

Based at United Downs and covering the TR postcode area, West Cornwall Search & Rescue Team provides vital inland search and rescue support for missing or injured people. The service is delivered entirely by a team of highly trained volunteers.

Last year, the team was awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. While they are not expecting to take home medals in their debut appearance, Perry says the team is ready for the challenge.

“Although we operate in an area without mountains, we train to the same high standards as mountain rescue teams and are part of the wider UK rescue community. We have strong expertise in medical care, rope work and rescue techniques, and we’re looking forward to showcasing our Cornish approach while learning from others along the way.”

You can follow the team’s journey to Norway on social media by searching for “West Cornwall SAR”, or visit the official SAR Games website at www.sargames.org.