Kevin Hallahan. Photo: Dublin and Wicklow MRT

A volunteer from an Irish rescue team has died in an accident in Snowdonia.

Kevin Hallahan of the Dublin and Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team was taking part in a training exercise with colleagues on Crib Goch on the Snowdon range when the incident happened.

The Caernarfon Coastguard helicopter joined members of Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team and colleagues from the Ogwen Valley and Aberglaslyn teams in the rescue operation on Saturday morning.

The Dublin and Wicklow team issued a statement saying its members were deeply shocked at losing their dear friend and teammate.

It said: “Kevin joined DWMRT in 2011 and quickly established himself as a valued and highly motivated team member.

“He was a skilled and experienced mountaineer who selflessly applied his knowledge to help those in need. Kevin could be relied upon to complete any task efficiently and safely, always looking out for his teammates.

“He was a man who cared for those around him, supporting and mentoring, with a kind word and his friendly smile.

“We offer our deepest sympathies at this tragic time to Kevin’s family, his parents Marie and Anthony, his sister Pamela, and brother Tony, and to his many friends.

“Our thoughts, in particular, are with Kevin’s wife and daughters, to whom he was devoted. DWMRT will do all we can to support Kevin’s family in the difficult weeks and months ahead. He was a wonderful person who will be sorely missed by all who were privileged to know him.”

Mr Hallahan died in an accident on Crib Goch. Photo: rockabilly_girl

The team thanked those who took part in the rescue, and North Wales Police.

A Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team spokesperson said: “We offer our heartfelt condolences to Kevin’s family, friends and team mates. Our thoughts are with all of you at this terribly difficult time.”

The Crib Goch ridge, between Pen-y-Pass and Snowdon’s summit, has been the scene of numerous rescues, including some fatal incidents, during recent years.