Mountain rescuers were deployed to save a walker in need of assistance on Scafell Pike.

On a cold, snowy, and windy start to the year on January 1, three members of the Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team received a call at 2.28am about a lone walker who was lost on the descent from Scafell Pike, heading towards Piers Gill rather than the tourist path to Brackenclose.

A spokesperson from the team said: “He was very cold, wet, and concerned for his safety.

“Fortunately, the team leader was able to locate the walker using Phonefind and then provide guidance to give confidence to the walker that he was moving in the right direction.

“Further Phonefinds at regular intervals prevented the need for team members to be deployed on the fell.

“A good outcome, given the planned deployment of help to Penrith Mountain Rescue Team several hours later.”

The callout lasted six hours and 26 minutes.

The team also advised people to ask themselves three questions before setting off to walk challenging fells.

These are:

  • Do I have the right gear?
  • Do I know what the weather will be like?
  • Am I confident that I have the knowledge and skills for the day?