A Lake District mountain rescue team had a nine-hour call out after a walker got stuck on a ridge – and have apologised if people were disturbed by the helicopters which came to help.
Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team was called late Wednesday evening with reports that a lone walker had become cragfast on Scafell.
It was initially reported to be on Broad Stand, but after checking the co-ordinates from the police call, was confirmed to be slightly further south on the East Buttress of Scafell.
The team said: “Care was taken to understand the exact nature of his predicament as deploying rescue teams immediately in the dark in a crag environment without sleep carries its own risks. On balance, it was decided to deploy as he was on a small ledge with a significant drop beneath, safe in the short term but not to leave for many more hours.”
The rescue began at around 11.15pm on Wednesday and a Coastguard helicopter was requested to pick the walker up, but clouds descended on the area and after several attempts, the helicopter had to go to refuel.
The team said: “The teams made their way up the hill for a rope rescue. Extra support was then requested and given by Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team.
“Having ascended Scafell, it took some time for the Wasdale team to establish the best and safest access route, from close to the summit.
“This involved a diagonal lower of the rescuer. This also meant the casualty was less at risk from rockfall from the rescuer and belay party. Rope protection was used to descend to the point where they could establish belay anchors for the lower.
“However, at about 3am the clouds lifted sufficiently to attempt another helicopter rescue, and this time Rescue 936 helicopter from Caernarfon lifted to support. However, when it arrived, the winch rescue was also assessed to be very risky, so plan A became the rope rescue.
“Once on the scene the walker was successfully secured with a harness and attached to the rope for a protected down-climb to safety below. Most of the team members then followed and abseiled down with the excess equipment.”
The teams got back to base at around 8.20am on Thursday.
The team added: “Hearty breakfasts back at base for all were gratefully received after an ‘all-nighter’ and the vehicles were then restocked for the next callout.
“Many thanks to the crew of Rescue 199 and 936 and Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team. We’re also sorry if local residents were disturbed by the helicopter activity. A tricky job with great teamwork, and an excellent outcome.”
