Langdale Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team was deeply saddened at the news of the death of Michael Machell, one of its former members, in a climbing accident in California on 14 January. He travelled to America to study for a year at Berkely University.
Michael, a former student at the Ambleside campus of the University of Cumbria, was involved with the Team, as a trainee and full member, for three years from 2008 to 2011. He graduated from the University of Cumbria with a first class Honours Degree. He attended approximately one hundred and seventy rescues in that time. His interest in mountain rescue was just one manifestation of his deep love for climbing and the outdoors.
Nick Owen, Team Leader, said “Michael was a great friend, a regular climbing partner, and a committed team member. His youthful energy and boundless enthusiasm was infectious. He will be sadly missed by all current and former team members"
Michael was 23 years old.