The witness also described the search for the Belfast schoolboy as “unique”.
Sean McCarry said their operation had many similarities to other searches, but he described the search for Noah as “a unique situation” and added that he “never experienced a search with such an immediate impact” in terms of community support.
The witness explained how all search operations present difficulties, and the volunteers are always aware of the need to address any issues around potential delays or mistakes during and after any search operation.
“Every single search has its challenges”, he said.
The witness also explained how the volunteers considered their initial searches of Cave Hill as “very credible” because Noah’s mother, Fiona, had provided information which stated that her son had said he planned to go to that area to meet friends on the day he disappeared.
The inquest was also shown details of information exchanged during the police investigation which stated that “no suicide note” had been found or “any other information which would indicate that Noah intends to harm himself”.