THE High Sheriff of Durham has been finding out more about the vital work of mountain rescue volunteers.

Caroline Peacock and her husband, Jonathan Peacock, visited Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue team members at their base in Lanchester Road, Durham last week.

The pair were welcomed to the base by the team’s public relations officer Scott Bissett, before enjoying a tour led by team leader Steve Overs.

Mrs Peacock then told the volunteers about her role as the Queen’s representative in the county, and spoke of her interest in the emergency services and the lifesaving service they provide.

The couple then sat in on a training session about the search techniques used, which was delivered by team member Paul Allison.

Mrs Peacock, from Hamsterly, near Bishop Auckland, thanked the team for enlightening her on their vital role and offered any support she could give during her time as High Sheriff.