TWO Powys-based firefighters have been commended for showing “exceptional bravery” after they helped carry an injured walker more than 3 miles to safety, from the face of Wales’ highest mountain.

Phil Morris and Darren Davies were part of a Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MWWFRS) team embarking on the Welsh Three Peaks challenge – climbing Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Cader Idris and Pen y Fan within 24 hours – earlier this month, fundraising for the Fire Fighters Charity.

While descending Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon – Wales’ highest peak at 1,085 metres – on Friday, September 6, the duo came across an injured Jack Smith, and his friends.

Jack had injured his foot while climbing the mountain and couldn’t put any weight on it. With at least 3 miles remaining until they reached the base of Yr Wyddfa and the risk of Jack and his friends being stranded in the dark, Phil and Darren decided they would carry him off the mountain.

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“Initially, they tried carrying Jack in a tonne bag they’d found on the mountain, but it soon became apparent that the rocky terrain would make this impractical,” said a MWWFRS spokesperson.

“Therefore, they both decided to take it in turns giving Jack a piggyback ride to the base of the mountain and eventually bringing him to safety.

“Phil and Darren were able to put into practice their years of fire and rescue training and dedication to public safety to assist Jack down Yr Wyddfa and bring him to safety. Well done Phil and Darren.”

The 3-mile descent was a rocky and treacherous one.The 3-mile descent was a rocky and treacherous one. (Image: Supplied)

Initially they tried carrying Jack in a tonne bag they’d found on the mountain, but this soon became impossible.Initially they tried carrying Jack in a tonne bag they’d found on the mountain, but this soon became impossible. (Image: Supplied) Group manager Phil, from near Builth Wells, and on-call firefighter Darren, believed to be from the Llandrindod Wells area, demonstrated exceptional bravery and commitment to safety.

The Welsh Three Peaks challenge includes a total walking distance of 17 miles and an ascent of 2,334 metres, and MAWWFRS personnel were taking part to raise funds for both the Fire Fighters Charity as well as Hywel Dda Health Charities.

The team is still raising funds through a JustGiving page, any donation will be greatly appreciated.