Teenager is one of Scotland's youngest mountain rescuers
Matthew Knapman is on a year's probation with Assynt Mountain Rescue
- Published
A 17-year-old from Inverness has become one of Scotland's youngest mountain rescuers.
Sixth-year pupil Matthew Knapman was inspired to volunteer after he was rescued following a mountain bike accident near Golspie in 2022.
He is now on a year's probation with Assynt Mountain Rescue Team, which has one of the largest areas to cover in Scotland.
He hopes to follow in his father's footsteps and become a permanent member of the team.
Matthew after his accident in 2022
Matthew said he wanted to "give something back" after being carried to safety on a spinal board following the "nasty" mountain biking crash.
His dad Paul said it was a terrifying experience - but he knew his son was in safe hands with mountain rescuers and the emergency services.
The ordeal left Matthew with a keen interest in volunteering.
He said: "It really inspired me to find out what mountain rescue does - and how I can help them."
Matthew said his ordeal inspired him to volunteer for the mountain rescue service
The teenager, a pupil at Inverness Royal Academy, first volunteered to help with Assynt's equipment checks and fundraising as part of his work towards a Duke of Edinburgh Award.
He was then offered a probationary period, with the potential of becoming a full member at the end.
His previous climbing experience includes an ascent of Africa's highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, last year.
Assynt MRT has about 30 members, including Matthew's dad - who has been with the team for eight years.
They cover an area of about 4.660 sq miles (7,500 sq km) which includes parts of Caithness and Sutherland.
Matthew's dad Paul has been a member of the team for eight years
Matthew told BBC Radio Scotland's Drivetime programme he had already attended two call-outs.
He said: "My first one was an 83-year-old walker who was on his own and struggling a bit.
"Fortunately he just needed a torch, some jelly babies and encouragement."
Matthew's second call-out was to a missing person report in John O'Groats.
He said he would have the support of his family and the rest of the team if faced with a serious situation.
Matthew, left, training with Assynt MRT
"The team is fantastic," he said.
"It's like a big family."
His dad, Paul, said: "I am very proud he is demonstrating his capabilities and helping other people.
"The pride is bursting out of my heart."
Assynt team leader Tim Hamlet said Matthew had the character and enthusiasm needed in mountain rescue.