West Cornwall Search & Rescue Team has proudly secured 6th place in its first-ever appearance at the international SAR Games, held in Norway this past weekend.

Competing against highly skilled search and rescue teams from around the world, the volunteer-led Cornish team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, resilience and teamwork throughout the demanding multi-scenario event.

The competition tested participants across approximately 30 scenarios in just 24 hours, including complex search operations, first aid challenges and simulated emergency incidents. Difficult weather conditions, including strong winds in the early hours of Saturday morning, added to the intensity of the event.

Team member Phil described the experience as both challenging and rewarding:

“The event was particularly testing, with strong winds in the early hours of Saturday morning curtailing things slightly.

We had to contend with 30 scenarios in roughly 24 hours, including a Kraken attack, a minefield, and even ‘delivering a baby’ in a car.”

In addition to competing, team member Sal took on the role of umpire, assessing teams on search techniques and casualty care, while also supporting the team behind the scenes.

Team Chair, Andy, said:

“For a team making its first international appearance, finishing 6th is a fantastic achievement. We are incredibly proud of our volunteers, who represented West Cornwall and the wider search and rescue community with skill, dedication and true Cornish spirit.”

The team has also expressed its gratitude to supporters back home whose encouragement played a vital role throughout the event.

West Cornwall Search & Rescue Team is a volunteer organisation dedicated to assisting emergency services in search and rescue operations across the region. The team hopes to build on this success and return to future international competitions.