Winter warning for walkers

2 rescues as winter hits the fells

A Mountain Rescue team member signals a navy helicopter. Photo: Cockermouth Mountain Rescue

Mountain Rescue Teams are urging walkers who take to the fells to be prepared for the winter conditions.

The Cockermouth team were called out twice yesterday to help people who had slipped on ice. One man from Wigan had to be airlifted by a Royal Navy helicopter to hospital in Carlisle after dislocating his shoulder whilst walking near Buttermere.

One casualty had to airlifted to hospital by a Royal Navy helicopter from Prestwick. Credit: Cockermouth Mountain Rescue

Another man had to be carried off the fells with elbow and rib injuries after he slipped over and then slid down a steep bank whilst descending from Pillar mountain to Wind Gap, not far from Wasdale.

He was carried off the hill by the team, who were assisted by members of Wasdale Mountain Rescue and by RAF Leeming Mountain Rescue team members who were training in the area.

The second casualty is carried to safety. Credit: Cockermouth Mountain Rescue

In total 30 Mountain Rescue Team Members attended the 2 casualties, the second of which wasn't dealt with until well after dark.