A mountain rescue team leader has issued a “be prepared” warning after they rescued a couple lost in darkness in the Dovestones area.

An 11-strong volunteer team from Oldham’s Mountain Rescue Team were involved in a search to find the couple after a call from Greater Manchester Police on Saturday (30 October).

And as team members were being deployed, their duty callout officer sent a PhoneFind message, establishing the couple’s location as Middle Edge Moss, above Birchen Clough.

The couple only had limited phone battery. Mountain rescue gave them warm clothing and torches, and escorted them back to the vehicles to be checked over by the team’s medic.

OMRT leader Rob Tortoishell said: “With changing weather and the nights drawing in, we would advise people to be even more prepared if they are venturing into the hills.

“Always carry spare clothing and food, take a map and compass - and know how to use them. Do tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back, have a torch with spare batteries, and fully charge your mobile phone so you can stay in contact if the worst does happen.

“If you do need assistance when in a wild or remote place, dial 999, ask for police then mountain rescue. 

“Knowing exactly where you are will help the response hugely - although location apps may aid us in finding you, there is no substitute for an accurate OS grid reference location.” 

He added: “As a rescue service we are happy to assist anyone in distress. We don’t judge our casualties and respectfully ask our followers to act in a similar manner. Let’s keep it positive folks!”

OMRT were involved for one hour and 50 minutes.