MacInnes Stretchers

Our Stretchers

The Origin

Hamish MacInnes is known as the “Father of Scottish Mountain Rescue” and is recognised as having developed modern mountain rescue into its present form. Hamish founded the Glencoe Mountain Rescue Team back in 1961. In 1965 he started the Search and Rescue Dog Association (SARDA ).

Genius Spark

It is in the nature of a rescue team’s work that they have to climb fast, during the worst weather. For even the strongest, fittest and most skilful climbers, having 12.5 Kg and the considerable bulk of half a stretcher strapped to their backs is a serious encumbrance.

MK7 Birth

Hamish and Richard were proud to have got the Mk7’s weight down to 11 kg when fully fitted and ready for the mountains. This weight reduction was largely because of the new composite tub shell, then being made by Richard’s father. He was justly proud of the quality of the Mk7 stretcher tubs he made.

The Task Ahead

When he started the new mould, Richard’s plans never anticipated that he would have to make all the fittings as well. Only when he was faced with taking over Hamish’s side of the production did Richard realise how much effort Hamish had been putting into finishing the stretcher tubs sent to him.