A Lake District walker was rescued on Christmas Day – marking a milestone for the volunteers who helped them.
Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team said it was called out at around 5.45pm, making it the 100th call out of 2025.
Cumbria police initially alerted Penrith Mountain Rescue Team to a broken emergency call from a walker in distress.
With limited information they realised the call was possibly in the Patterdale area and passed the incident over.
The team said: “The duty leader called the full team out requesting additional support from Penrith Mountain Rescue Team to prepare for a potentially long technical evacuation from the Dove Crag area.
“As 19 volunteers from both teams ascended toward the summit of Dove Crag, the reporting walker – having descended to the valley to ensure the alarm was raised – was able to provide a clear location and medical details.
“The casualty was located on the fell, where they had been carefully wrapped in sleeping bags and a bivi bag by their companion to keep them warm from the bitter cold conditions at scene.
“After receiving immediate medical treatment, the casualty was stabilised and assisted off the hill by the combined teams.
“The casualty was taken to Patterdale base to be reunited with the family member and after being assessed again by the team doctor they were allowed to return to their home address.”
The rescue lasted 5 hours and 30 minutes, involving nine members from Patterdale and 10 from Penrith mountain rescue teams.
This mission marked the 100th time this year that Patterdale’s volunteers have left their jobs, beds, or families to assist those in need.
A team spokesman said: “Reaching 100 rescues for the second year running is a significant milestone.
“It is particularly resonant that this occurred on Christmas Day.
“It highlights the unwavering commitment of our members who, like all Mountain Rescue volunteers, provide this professional service entirely for free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”
To support the team, donate at https://mountainrescue.org.uk/make-a-donation/
