Emergency services and volunteer teams were called to Pen y Fan in the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park on January 10, as they dealt with two separate incidents – with a Mountain Rescue volunteer subjected to abuse
Visitors to one of Wales ‘ most beloved natural attractions have come under fire for their “unacceptable” conduct as emergency services responded to incidents on Pen y Fan.
Emergency teams and volunteers were summoned to Pont ar Daf in the Brecon Beacons National Park on 10 January, dealing with two separate situations on the mountain. Helicopters were also seen circling overhead as part of the response effort. Meanwhile, staff at a nearby car park were grappling with icy winter conditions, striving to keep emergency access routes clear.
In an official statement, those overseeing the site expressed gratitude to members of the public who demonstrated “patience, understanding and kindness” during a challenging day. This included visitors who extended offers of assistance and words of encouragement to staff and volunteers.
However, the statement also highlighted concerns about inappropriate behaviour observed during the emergency response. It was reported that a Mountain Rescue volunteer was subjected to abuse while performing crucial safety work to ensure emergency routes remained accessible, reports Wales Online.
READ MORE: ‘I own over 150 perfumes but this £28 scent gets me compliments every time’READ MORE: Ryanair passenger told she couldn’t bring bag and hit with £75 fine in suitcase wheel row
The statement firmly condemned any form of abuse or intimidation towards volunteers and staff, particularly during active emergency incidents, labelling it as ” not acceptable.”
To stay updated with the biggest stories in Wales, sign up to our daily newsletter here.
Visitors were told that emergency access routes and signed gates must remain clear at all times, and that instructions issued during incidents are given for safety reasons. The statement also emphasised that winter conditions demand patience and cooperation, cautioning that delays to emergency access can directly impact outcomes for those in urgent need of help.
In a statement, Brecon Beacons National Park said: “Today at Pont ar Daf, emergency services and volunteer teams were responding to two serious incidents on Pen y Fan, while the team at the Car Park were also managing icy winter conditions and keeping emergency access routes clear.
“Many members of the public showed patience, understanding and kindness, and we would like to thank them. From quiet words of appreciation to those who offered help without being asked, these actions make a real difference on demanding days.
“However, we also witnessed unacceptable behaviour towards a Mountain Rescue volunteer who was carrying out safety-critical work to keep emergency routes open. Abuse or intimidation of volunteers, and staff, during active incidents, and in their work, is not acceptable, particularly when emergency responses are underway.
“A reminder to all: Emergency access routes and signed gates must be kept clear at all times. Instructions given during incidents are about safety, not convenience, winter conditions require patience, cooperation and care. Delays to emergency access are not minor – they can directly affect the outcome for someone in urgent need of help.
“Our thanks go to the Mountain Rescue teams, emergency services, site staff and volunteers who worked professionally today, and to the many visitors who showed respect for people, place and situation. We wish those who sustained injuries a speedy recovery. Shared outdoor spaces rely on shared responsibility. Thank you to those who help make that possible.”
