Two new recruits join the Fell Top assessors, who scale the peak every day from now until Easter.

The Fell Top assessors, part of the Lake District National Park Authority team, provide weather updates for winter walkers.

Their reports, combined with the weather forecast, are recommended reading for anyone planning a winter walk in the area.

The new assessors have now completed their first summit.

A service, now in its 37th year, sees assessors make the 950-metre climb up Helvellyn every day between December and March.

This year, newcomers Paddy Cave and Jim Evans have joined Zac Poulton, who is now in his eighth season.

The trio will take turns climbing Helvellyn every day, including Christmas Day, to provide up-to-date weather reports, which can be accessed on the WeatherLine website.

The assessors provide readings of average wind speed, maximum wind gust, air temperature, wind chill, and wind direction.

Mr Poulton said: "The Fell Top Assessor reports are a key source of information for helping people stay safe on the Lake District fells through the winter months.

"Conditions can regularly change rapidly and can be as challenging as anywhere in the world with storm force winds, blizzards, driving rain, poor visibility, and white outs.

"Even the spectacular blue sky days can be challenging with hard snow and ice underfoot requiring crampons and ice axe for safe travel."

Mr Evans said: "As a member of the Ambleside/Langdale Mountain Rescue Team, I see first-hand the serious incidents that can occur if the appropriate precautions aren’t taken.

"Our message is simple, we want everyone to be prepared and safe, and to remember there’s no shame in turning back if conditions aren’t right – the fells will still be there the next day."

In addition to their weather-reporting duties, the team will also be delivering Winter Skills Courses throughout the season.

These courses will guide people up the mountain, teaching the snowcraft skills necessary for winter walking in the UK’s fells and mountains.

If you wish to book a Winter Skills Course with one of the Fell Top Assessors, you can do so via the WeatherLine website.