Over the course of a year like no other, this programme documents the Community Rescue Service as they search for high-risk missing people and investigate historic cases across Northern Ireland.

While the CRS are used to working tirelessly in difficult conditions, 2020 brought a unique set of challenges. Alongside call-outs to find missing persons, the CRS were also tasked with the distribution of essential PPE to key workers on the frontline of the pandemic.

In north Belfast, CRS teams launch a major search operation for 14-year-old Noah Donohoe, who has been reported missing. In a show of solidarity, the local community come together to assist in whatever way they can, making this search one of the most profound the CRS have ever faced.

In the west of Northern Ireland, a different CRS station responds to a high-risk person who has been reported missing near to a major river. The search area widens, and teams on the ground are assisted by dogs and specialist water teams.

It’s Christmas Eve, and teams receive an urgent call to search for a high-risk missing male who has difficulties with his mental wellbeing. Winter conditions later in the festive period mean the search for a missing 80-year-old man intensifies fast. CRS are urgently called to Co. Armagh to scour the local area for the missing man, as low temperatures make this search a priority.

The CRS can also be tasked with historic missing persons cases. During a sonar exercise along the River Bann, the teams locate an item in the water that sparks interest and leads to the recovery of a car believed to be that of James Patterson, who has been missing for over 29 years. Show less