In the news

This year’s birthday honours list includes an MBE for Mike France, Chairman of Mountain Rescue England & Wales.

Mike joined Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team in 1970 and subsequently became a party leader, team leader and regional incident controller, a job he continues to do today. He took on the role of Chairman of Mountain Rescue England & Wales in May 2014. 

Mike commented: “I feel genuinely honoured and humbled to receive this award. As a mountain rescuer you are used and committed to turning out as and when required in order to help others. To have that work recognised like this is a real honour – not just for me but for all mountain rescuers who selflessly turn out when everyone else is going home”. 

Mike joins a growing list of mountain rescuers honoured for their vital work in the community.