The Ashburton Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team has welcomed the government's decision to set aside £200,000 nationally to help pay for such services.

It is the first time direct funding has been offered and will this year contribute to the cost of buying equipment.

Details have yet to be confirmed but hopes have been expressed that up to a sixth of the Ashburton group's annual costs of £16,000 could be covered.

The funding package was announced by chief secretary to the treasury, Danny Alexander MP.

DSRT Ashburton spokesman Keith Lambeth said: 'Obviously as an entirely voluntarily staffed and funded emergency service any financial recognition of the work we provide for our communities is welcomed.

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