MOUNTAIN rescue volunteers started the new year by brushing up on their life saving skills, courtesy of Herefordshire Heartstart.

More than 30 volunteer rescuers were involved in the course, hosted by the Longtown Mountain Rescue Team.

Members of the Search and Rescue Dog Association and Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team learned skills from Herefordshire Heartstart instructors, as well as the team doctor and the resuscitation officer from Nevill Hall Hospital, Abergavenny.

Longtown Mountain Rescue responded to 28 incidents throughout 2003 and has had four calls this year.

The team relies on donations and fundraising from events such as the Big Black Mountains Challenge. This year's event will be held on May 22, details on the website www.longtownmrt.org.co.uk

For information about Herefordshire Heartstart, call 01432 880998.