Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team has been assisting people in the western fells of the Lake District for over 50 years. We cover England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, and respond to over one hundred calls for help each year. The team consists of approximately forty ‘professional volunteers’ who give their time to help those in need, whatever the weather, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For more information please read our about page. We rely on generous donations from the public to fund the team. Once a year, we recruit a new intake of probationary members.
Recent Rescues
Dropping Crag, Scafell Pike – Sun 18th Oct 2026
Cumbria Police received multiple reports of a person stuck under a rock or boulder and getting cold in the area of the Dropping Crag. Some location data came with these calls, but the Team Leader was unable to speak to the person directly. Because the incident could have been serious, Wasdale MRT, Duddon & Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team and Maritime and Coastguard Agency helicopter Rescue 899 (Prestwick) were deployed. The specialist team COMRU was also contacted about ways of moving large rocks, and began drawing up a plan in case they were needed. Further reports then came in…
Wast Water Screes – Mon 12th Oct 2026
Cumbria Police received a call about three people stranded on the scree boulder field at Wastwater with no head torches. The team sent a small group out with the Wasdale Boat, they were helped off the Screes and then dropped them off at their accommodation.
Corridor Route, Scafell Pike – Sat 10th Oct 2026
A mother contacted Cumbria Police to report that her son and his friend were missing/overdue on Scafell Pike. Shortly afterwards, the Duty Team Leader spoke directly with the two young men, who confirmed they were safe and well and had just arrived back at their car in Seathwaite. No team members were deployed.
Corridor Route, Scafell Pike – Thu 8th Oct 2026
Cumbria Police received a call from a group that had split up on their way down off Scafell Pike. The party was in Keswick’s area of responsibility, so the job was passed over to Keswick MRT.
Beck Head, Great Gable – Thu 8th Oct 2026
Cumbria Police received a call about a couple stuck. The team leader investigated and found a husband and wife, descending Great Gable towards Wasdale, had found themselves on loose, steep scree. Contact was made by mobile, and they were given advice on how to move onto safer ground. The couple then managed to get back onto the path, and the team stood down.
Brackenclose, Wasdale – Wed 7th Oct 2026
Cumbria Police received a call about a male who had fallen and was suspected to have broken his lower leg. The team deployed and were quickly on scene. He was treated and stretchered to a friend’s car, who took him to hospital.