Cambridgeshire Search and Rescue marks 20th anniversary
‘It was a cold winter afternoon, it had begun to snow and we were out looking for a missing teenager….’
The founding members at Cambridgeshire Search and Rescue recall the first search the team attended.
Feeling apprehensive but knowing they had completed hours of training, they stepped forward with a shared feeling of responsibility and purpose.
As Cambridgeshire Search and Rescue (CamSAR) mark their 20th anniversary this year, we caught up with the team to reflect on their journey from that first search and its evolution into the organisation it is today.
The charity was founded in 2006 following the closure of a high-profile missing person case in Cambridgeshire.
Recognising the need for a dedicated search team, CamSAR was established to assist the Cambridgeshire Constabulary in the search for missing, high-risk, and vulnerable people—a role the team continues to fulfil today.
Callouts can involve missing children, people living with dementia, or individuals at risk of harming themselves.
Behind every search is a committed team of trained volunteers, of all ages and backgrounds, ready to respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
In the early days, before mobile phones were in common use, team members were alerted through a cascade of calls—one person contacting two others, who then phoned another two.
Searches were planned using paper maps, with sectors marked out using rulers and coloured pens.
Today, technology has transformed operations.
Mobile communications, GPS tracking, and digital mapping allow a much faster, more efficient deployment.
Search planning uses dedicated software, and tack logs help Search Managers to identify areas already covered.
Tools such as What3Words enable teams and emergency services to pinpoint exact locations when a missing person is found.
CamSAR is one of 35 member teams of Lowland Rescue around the UK and delivers nationally recognised and licensed search technician training, ensuring its volunteers meet professional standards.
Over the years, the team has expanded specialist capabilities, including a bike team, drone operations, K9 units, and water rescue, allowing response to a wide range of search scenarios.
Beyond operational duties, CamSAR regularly provides educational sessions to local schools, scout and guide groups, and police cadets around the county.
Every December, the team also helps Santa to visit some of Cambridgeshire villages to raise funds for the team.
This summer they will again give a live demonstration at Ely Aquafest and attend the Cambridgeshire County Show among other events.
Looking ahead, the team has launched a fundraising campaign for a new Mobile Support Unit vehicle and upgraded radios—vital resources to enhance safety, coordination, and effectiveness on future searches.