A cave rescuer has picked up an award for his team’s part in the incredible rescue of 12 boys and their football coach trapped in a flooded cave in Thailand earlier this year.

Gary Mitchell, who lives in Staylittle between Machynlleth and Llanidloes, picked up the honour at this year’s Wales Care Awards with fellow team member Dan Thorne. The awards ceremony took place at City Hall in Cardiff.

Gary and members of the South and Mid-Wales Cave Rescue Team played a vital role in the recovery of 12 boys and their coach in the depths of Thailand’s Tham Luang Nang Non cave in Chiang Rai Province.

The team was drafted in to support an international operation, including military personnel from Thailand, America, Australia and China.

They coordinated a treacherous mission which saw all members of the Wild Boars soccer team and their assistant coach reunited with their families.

The cavers received a special Platinum Award in honour of their heroics and were given a standing ovation after it was presented by Welsh Government Cabinet secretary for energy, planning and rural affairs, AM Lesley Griffiths.

“This is a team award to recognise everyone who played a part in this rescue,” said senior team leader Gary, 43.

“I’m very privileged to be accepting it on behalf of everyone in the team, and all those involved in the rescue itself. It’s great to have our home nation recognition."

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