Al Day of the rescue team receives a cheque for £400 from Kevin Baldwin, right, of Mud UK

An appeal for cash to replace a mountain rescue volunteer’s gear stolen in a raid has surpassed its target.

Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team said the member who had £600-worth of equipment stolen was overwhelmed by public support.

More than £700 has been donated, including one of £400 from the boss of a Land Rover equipment firm who has himself been the victim of a theft.

A rucksack containing outdoor clothing and specialist mountain rescue gear was stolen from a car parked outside the volunteer’s home.

A local police support officer in Bradford tracked down the empty rucksack on waste ground after members of a police community boxing club mentioned seeing it.

But the clothing and climbing gear has not been recovered.

A team spokesperson said: “We’ve been inundated with goodwill messages wanting to donate money or replacement gear.

“As a result we decided to launch a fundraising page on Saturday morning to help replenish the stolen equipment, which would allow our team member to return to operational duties.

“In several days, an incredible £332 has been raised on the fundraising page. Many thanks to everyone who has kindly donated and left messages of support.”

Kevin Baldwin of Mud-UK, which the team has used for off-road equipment for its team vehicles, handed over £400 to the Mytholmroyd-based rescuers.

He said: “Having recently lost a load of kit myself when my Land Rover was stolen, I know how frustrating it can be and so I was keen to help out.”

Calder Valley SRT team leader Les Wilson said: “From a bad news story about a desperate act of theft, this has now turned into a great example of community spirit and very generous support and while we haven’t recovered the mountain rescue equipment, it makes me very proud to be part of this community and CVSRT team leader.

“Thank you everyone for helping us to help you.”