1. Brown Tongue, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 18:56 Thu 5th Jan 2023

Our first tasking of the year commenced after a call was received from Cumbria Police. Two walkers descending from Scafell Pike arrived at the stream crossing and did not believe it was safe to cross after a period of heavy rain. They were becoming increasingly cold. The team responded and once on scene assessed the conditions. By this time it was deemed safe to cross and so a small team made the crossing, gave food and encouragement to the walkers and then helped them back across. The party then made the short walk back down to the valley floor at Brackenclose. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/

 

2. Scafell Pike - Alert - 20:09 Thu 5th Jan 2023

Whilst callout No.1 was ongoing, a further call was received from the police. A single male walker was overdue from a walk up Scafell and a relative was concerned for his safety. Fortunately during the initial enquiries and investigation, the walker was discovered safe and well in his vehicle in the valley. Contact was not possible by phone at this point due to the lack of signal in this area.

 

3. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 18:45 Thu 19th Jan 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about a lone male walker who had set off in the morning aiming to climb Scafell Pike, but had not returned and was significantly overdue. Due to the winter conditions and the lack of a known location, extra help was required to enable a comprehensive search of a very large area as quickly as possible. A Coastguard helicopter was requested and plans were forming to callout another neighbouring team. Fortunately as this was happening, contact was made from the missing person. He had made it safely down into Borrowdale, and was returning to his intended destination of Wasdale via a taxi. Please do not underestimate winter conditions on the high Lake District fells, they are very hazardous without the right skills and equipment. Please like, share and comment to promote awareness, rather than criticism of the person involved on this occasion. #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

4. Corridor Route, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 16:54 Sat 21st Jan 2023

The team was called out via Cumbria Police last night to a medical emergency on the Corridor Route. On the descent from Scafell Pike one of a group of walkers was suffering from an asthma attack. He had taken his normal medication, however this was not helping as normal and he was not able to make any further progress. At this point they wisely called for help. The team responded quickly with an advance party and other team members following. Coastguard helicopter Rescue 936 from Caernarfon was also requested and responded. Once on scene the team medics provided shelter and gave additional medication and treatment. This was enough to improve the walker's condition to enable a winch into the helicopter. He was then flown to hospital in Whitehaven for further treatment, and the team returned to base to restock the vehicles. We wish the walker a swift recovery and hope to see him back on the fells soon. Many thanks also to the crew of Rescue 936, with some skilful flying in difficult conditions.

 

5. Lingmell Gill Path, Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 18:20 Tue 24th Jan 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about two walkers who had lost the path on the descent from Scafell Pike in very misty conditions. Fortunately the Team Leader was able to successfully locate their position with Phonefind. A Limited Callout was made as initially the pair appeared to still be in difficulty, however, they then managed to cross Lingmell Gill and find the main path down to Wasdale. This avoided any team members being deployed on the fell on this occasion.  

 

6. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 13:05 Thu 26th Jan 2023

The team was called today about a walker reporting himself cragfast. Phonefind was then used successfully once again to provide an accurate location, and this was determined to be around Pulpit Rock on Scafell Pike. Our friends at Duddon and Furness MRT were asked to support as was a Coastguard helicopter to potentially transfer team members and heavy crag equipment quickly to the summit plateau. Rescue 936 from Caernarfon responded and helped hugely by directly rescuing the walker with a winch from the crag. They then flew them back down to the valley to safety. This saved the teams from a long carry to and from the summit plateau. Our thanks to both Duddon and Furness MRT and also the crew of Rescue 936 once again. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/

 

7. Skew Gill, Great End - Alert - 19:22 Mon 6th Feb 2023

The Team Leader was alerted by Cumbria Police about two walkers who had lost the path in the dark and were concerned for their safety. Happily, after only a few minutes after the first call, they managed to find the path and quickly called to stand us down.

 

8. Wastwater Screes - Full Callout - 12:50 Sat 11th Feb 2023

The team was called today about a walker on the Screes path who had fallen and injured her ankle. It was called in to Cumbria Police by another couple who were passing. The Team Leader called the team out, and the team boat was mobilised. The advance foot party arrived on scene, assessed, provided pain relief and applied a splint to make her more comfortable. A short transfer was made to the boat, and then the walker was ferried to the other side of the lake in a well rehearsed manoeuvre. More team members were waiting there for another short journey to the land ambulance, and her onward transfer to hospital. We wish the walker a swift recovery and would like to thank the passing couple for their help.

 

9. Piers Gill, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 14:32 Sat 11th Feb 2023

As the first callout was still ongoing a second call was received from Cumbria Police. Another slip from a walker resulting in a leg injury, serious enough to prevent any further progress. Due to the resources already committed, and the potential for a serious injury, further assistance was requested from GNAAS for helicopter support. They duly obliged but unfortunately the ground was too steep to get a landing site close enough to help. The Coastguard helicopter from Caernarfon with winching capability was then dispatched along with extra support from our friends at Duddon and Furness MRT. When team members arrived on scene, the walker was assessed, given pain relief and the injured leg splinted. On arrival, the Coastguard helicopter team was able to winch into the aircraft and transfer to hospital. The team then escorted the walker’s partner back to the valley floor. We wish the walker well and hope to see her back on the fell soon. We’d like to thank both helicopter crews and Duddon and Furness MRT for their help once again.

 

10. Wastwater Screes - Limited Callout - 16:33 Mon 13th Feb 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police regarding a family whose dog was injured as they were crossing the Screes boulder field. They felt unable to move safely in either direction. A limited callout was made to deploy the team boat and ‘pick off’ the family group. Other team members made their way on foot to provide reassurance. The transfer to the boat was completed successfully and the family dropped off on the other side of the lake where their car was located. The team then stood down and returned to base to ready the vehicles for the next callout.

 

11. Muncaster Castle - Limited Callout - 18:12 Thu 16th Feb 2023

The team was called by North West Ambulance Service to assist with a casualty transfer. A visitor to Muncaster Castle had slipped and painfully injured his knee, rendering him unable to move. Once on scene the teams worked together to assess, provide pain relief and splint the leg, before stretchering the short distance to the ambulance for the onward transfer to hospital. We wish the gentleman all the best for a swift recovery.

 

12. Scafell Pike - Alert - 20:12 Sat 18th Feb 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about two walkers who were overdue from a walk up Scafell Pike. As the Team Leader and other team members were making enquiries and searching likely car parks the good news that the walkers had turned up safe and well was received and the team stood down.

 

13. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 22:15 Sat 18th Feb 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about two walkers who had lost the path on the summit plateau and became disoriented in the mist and rain. They were wet and extremely cold due to the significant wind chill and damp conditions and also had minor injuries from some slips and trips trying to find the path. The Team Leader made a full callout, as in the worst case at least one stretcher carry was needed. In addition a ‘talk and walk-off’ was not possible due to a poor mobile signal. Additional resources were once again requested and supplied by Duddon and Furness MRT. An advance party arrived on scene with additional warm clothing and encouragement, and fortunately the two walkers were able to recover enough to gingerly start to walk off the hill. This then helped to warm them further and with the assistance and further encouragement from other arriving team members, the two walkers managed to walk off the fell to safety. This good outcome was enabled by their good clothing and particularly their use of survival blankets that they had in their packs. We hope that the walkers recover well. A huge note of thanks once again to Duddon and Furness MRT for their support. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

14. Lingmell Col, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 14:06 Sun 19th Feb 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police about a walker in a party of two whose knee was spasming and so was struggling to keep moving. A full callout was made with the possibility of a stretcher carry. Once again Duddon and Furness MRT provided extra help. However, the walker managed to keep going slowly until the advance party met up with them in the Hollowstones area. After a discussion it was agreed that a slow and careful descent to Brackenclose was still possible and this was completed without further incident. We wish the walker well.

 

15. Corridor Route, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 16:27 Sun 19th Feb 2023

During incident 14, a further call was received regarding a walker who had sprained their ankle on the Corridor Route. As the first incident was under control by this point, team members were diverted from Brackenclose to Gavel Neese to support. However, a short time later a further call was received from the casualty party saying that MR support was not needed and they would manage to make their own way off the fell. The team the stood down and returned to base to replenish the vehicles.

 

16. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 18:31 Mon 20th Feb 2023

Wasdale Mountain Rescue team were alerted by Cumbria Police at 18.26 hrs on Monday 20 February about a lone walker who had reported himself as lost on the ridge between Scafell Pike and Great End in the Lake District. Mobile phone reception was very poor, but a location was quickly established and although the weather was deteriorating with thick mist and rain, he was asked to stay where he was and shelter from the wind. Under these conditions, a “talk-off” with rapidly declining phone battery and areas of known no signal at all would have meant the Team Leader losing contact with him, and an impossibly large area to search in very dangerous ground. The team responded quickly as we were already at the rescue base for a training night. Two fast team members, travelling very light with immediate first aid, warm clothing and a shelter were dispatched as there was concern that the casualty would already be very hypothermic. Back up parties followed with additional equipment. The lost walker was not found at the original location, and contact had been lost so a search of the area was mounted in exceptionally difficult conditions. As we had expected to find him at the original location, many of the team members were carrying heavy loads, including stretcher halves. Also an Autopulse which is a life saving mechanical device for carrying out prolonged CPR in the event of a cardiac arrest resulting from severe hypothermia. Keswick Mountain Rescue Team and Cockermouth search dogs were requested and they approached the search area from the North. By the early hours of the morning he had still not been found and teams reluctantly came off the hill having done all they could overnight in extremely cold and wet conditions. The search continued as callout 18

 

17. Pillar - Alert - 23:24 Mon 20th Feb 2023

As incident 16 was ongoing with the initial search for a missing walker, another call arrived from Cumbria Police about two walkers who were overdue after a walk up Pillar. As any search for this was more likely to be in Ennerdale, and also due to the ongoing callout in progress near Broad Crag summit, Cockermouth MRT kindly agreed to take over ownership. Happily the missing walkers were located quickly in the Ennerdale valley. Many thanks to Cockermouth MRT for their help.

 

18. Piers Gill, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 06:03 Tue 21st Feb 2023

The search from callout 16 continued at first light with more Rescue Team members and search dogs from across Cumbria and the North East. The weather remained wet and very misty, making searching in bad ground very challenging and negating the use of helicopter support. He was eventually found at around 14.30hrs as teams were making their way off the hill, on the East bank of Piers Gill. He was hypothermic, with knee, leg and foot injuries, but thankfully alive. Teams brought a stretcher and necessary equipment up to the scene, and after treatment he was stretchered off the hill and taken to hospital. We rarely comment on a rescue, but in this case, we would like to say he was very, very fortunate to have survived his ordeal. We also have to say that Google maps on smart phones are not suitable for navigating on the hills, they lack detail and of course will not work with a flat battery. There is no substitute for a map and compass and being able to use them. They can save one’s life. There were over 70 rescuers from 9 teams involved along with search dogs and team drones. The team wishes to thank the incredible support provided from all the teams that were involved from across Cumbria and from adjacent regions. Also the willingness of both the Helimed and Coastguard helicopter to respond, but prevented by the bad weather.

 

19. Scafell Pike - Alert - 18:49 Mon 27th Feb 2023

We were called in the evening about two walkers who had set off for a walk up Scafell Pike earlier in the afternoon and were now overdue. A family member was becoming increasingly concerned. Fortunately as the Team Leader was making initial enquiries the walkers turned up in the valley and the team was stood down.

 

20. Middleboot Knotts, Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 22:36 Mon 6th Mar 2023

We were called yesterday evening about a lone walker who had lost his bearings on the descent from Scafell Pike and was now very cold and exhausted. He had a tent and sleeping bag so was able to shelter on what was a very cold night at high elevation. Fortunately a location was obtained from the original call to Cumbria Police so a limited callout was made. Once on scene the team provided additional warm clothing and then escorted the walker back down to safety in the Wasdale valley. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/

 

21. Corney Fell - Limited Callout - 20:39 Sat 11th Mar 2023

We were asked last weekend to support Duddon and Furness MRT in a sweep of the fell roads over Birker and Corney Fells.

 

22. Scafell Pike - Alert - 18:37 Sat 18th Mar 2023

We were called last night by Cumbria Police regarding a group of 3 walkers who were overdue from a walk up Scafell Pike. Fortunately as the Team Leader was gathering information the missing group turned up safe and well in the valley and the team was stood down.

 

23. Brown Tongue, Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 19:33 Sat 18th Mar 2023

In the second call of the evening from Cumbria Police a single walker and a separate group of two walkers were reported to be struggling to descend to safety into the valley, having slipped several times, and at least one was becoming very cold. A limited callout was made to assess the situation and provide further assistance. Once on scene team members were able to provide additional help, support and encouragement to enable all three walkers to mobilise and make a slow descent back to Brackenclose to their accommodation and vehicle.

 

24. Kirkfell - Limited Callout - 14:56 Thu 23rd Mar 2023

We were called today by Cumbria Police regarding two walkers who were reported to be on a steep scree slope on Kirk Fell. They were exhausted, becoming increasingly cold and one had a hand injury from a fall. A limited callout was quickly initiated to help. Whilst en-route further information was received that one of the walkers was becoming more seriously affected by the cold, and so air support with winching capability was requested from the Coastguard. Rescue 936 from Caernarfon was tasked. Once on scene a medical assessment was performed before assisting with the winch into the helicopter. The casualty was flown to safety and then transferred to land ambulance for onward transfer to hospital. The team then escorted the other walker back down into the valley before returning to base to reset the vehicles. Many thanks to the Rescue 936 crew for their quick response once again.

 

25. Broad Crag - Limited Callout - 18:29 Fri 24th Mar 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police about two walkers who had made a navigational error on the descent from Scafell Pike and had ended up on difficult ground to the North of Broad Crag summit. Now finding themselves with steep drops all around, darkness falling and deteriorating weather conditions they wisely called for help. Phonefind was used by the Team Leader to successfully locate the walkers. Fortunately the pair were intending to wild camp lower down, so were well equipped to safely spend the night out. This was decided as the best course of action to minimise risk to the team with a callout requested for an RV at base at 0600 on Saturday. The next morning, a group of four team members were deployed to the walkers’ location, where additional warm clothing and helmets were given. They were then assisted back up the steep ground to the summit of Broad Crag, from where a standard walk-off could take place. The walkers were escorted to Wasdale Head Inn, from where they were looking forward to a warmup, food and drink and and then a long and expensive taxi journey back to their car. The team members made their way back to base to replenish the vehicle and enjoy tea and pizza. However, just as the cuppas were being finished, the pager sounded for the next job……. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/

 

26. Great Gable - Full Callout - 13:10 Sat 25th Mar 2023

In the second deployment of the day, we were called by Cumbria Police about a walker who had slipped close to the summit of Great Gable and sustained a suspected broken ankle. Unable to bear any weight, other walkers had managed to carefully carry her down the fell most of the way to Styhead Tarn. As some members of the team had just returned from the previous callout, and with numbers also a little low for the long and difficult carry down to Wasdale Head, additional assistance was requested from our friends at Duddon and Furness MRT and also a Coastguard helicopter. Both were able to respond quickly. Rescue 936 mobilised from Caernarfon and was first ‘on scene’ however at this point the cloud base was too low to safely extract the casualty directly. However, we were grateful to accept the offer to lift both Wasdale and Duddon team members from Gavel Neese to Styhead Tarn, which enabled us to get help to the casualty much quicker. Once on scene the team medics assessed and splinted the ankle, before the stretcher carry down to Styhead Tarn. Rescue 936 was then able to return to pick up the casualty and take her to hospital with some skilful flying in difficult and variable weather conditions, saving us significant effort. The teams then made their way off the fell, with the intent to go back to their respective bases and replenish vehicles. However, shortly after the vehicles got moving, the next call from Cumbria Police arrived…… Huge thanks again to the crew of Rescue 936 and Duddon and Furness MRT. Also to the walkers who stoically carried her a significant distance down from the summit. A great team effort all round. We wish the walker a quick recovery and hope to see her back on the fell soon.

 

27. Lingmell Col, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 17:08 Sat 25th Mar 2023

In the third and last deployment of the day, both Wasdale MRT and Duddon and Furness MRT vehicles were asked to hold position on their return to base from the previous tasking. A further call had been received from Cumbria Police regarding a walker who was reported to be feeling unwell and dizzy after being on the fell for many hours. They were also wet and cold, and unable to make further progress. Members of both teams responded once more and returned to Brackenclose for the ascent, with Duddon and Furness MRT first on the hill. On arrival the Duddon and Furness MRT team members found that many passing walkers had stopped to help the casualty in various ways : food and drink, energy gels, emergency shelter and foil blanket. This no doubt helped the casualty both physically and psychologically and many thanks go to all those who delayed their own journeys to help a fellow walker. The team medics then assessed the casualty but following this had enough concerns to request a quicker evacuation to hospital via helicopter. Once again, the Coastguard team were engaged and this time Rescue 199 from Prestwick was despatched to assist, with the team on scene continuing to provide monitoring and reassurance. With the cloud base lifting nicely, Rescue 199 was able to access the casualty site and then fly the casualty to hospital for further assessment. We hope he recovers quickly and is able to return to the fells soon. Thanks again to Duddon and Furness MRT and the crew of Rescue 199. This time both MRT teams returned to base and then their homes without another call. in total, the Wasdale MRT base was operational yesterday from 0530 until 2330 with three lengthy back to back callouts. A bit of an epic day!

 

28. Pillar - Full Callout - 15:44 Mon 27th Mar 2023

A call was received yesterday from Cumbria Police regarding a lone walker who had departed with the intention of walking from Wasdale Head to Pillar. A family member had reported him as overdue and was concerned for his safety. The car parks (and pub!) at Wasdale Head were checked, which confirmed that he was likely to be still on the fell. When he still had not turned up in the valley some time later the Team Leader called out the team to make the most of the remaining daylight. A call was also made to Cockermouth MRT to help as Pillar summit represents the border of our respective areas, with quicker access via Ennerdale. Happily, as the first team vehicle was heading into Wasdale the missing walker’s car was observed heading out. He had also just notified the police of his safe return having seen the request to do so on his windscreen. A good outcome. Many thanks to Cockermouth MRT for their quick response. (Photo of Jess from another callout for attention )

 

29. Scafell Pike - Alert - 14:18 Sat 1st Apr 2023

A call was received from North West Ambulance Service on Saturday regarding a walker who had fallen and sustained a head injury. As the Team Leader was gathering information and preparing to call the team out, a passing Mountain Leader stopped to assist. He provided shelter, assessed the situation, and provided an update back to base. It was agreed that the walker was able to walk off the hill under supervision from the ML, with the team ready to respond if needed. Fortunately this was not required and the team stood down when the party arrived at Wasdale Head. Many thanks to the ML who stepped up and provided much needed assistance and reassurance very quickly.

 

30. Langstrath - Alert - 17:00 Sat 1st Apr 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who has fallen with a suspected broken ankle. However the Team Leader quickly established that this was not in our ‘patch’ and the incident was handed over to Keswick MRT.

 

31. Mickledore, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 03:38 Sun 2nd Apr 2023

An early Sunday morning call arrived from Cumbria Police about two walkers who who become benighted high on Scafell Pike in the mist. Having spent many hours trying to find their way, one of the walkers had also slipped and tripped multiple times and had sustained several injuries. The team were called and due to low numbers from pre-arranged training courses, we requested additional support from Duddon And Furness MRT. The casualties were located and initially provided with a team shelter, additional clothing, food and drink. As expected one of the casualties was injured, in significant pain and was not able to safely walk off the fell. As such evacuation help was provided by Rescue 936 from Caernarfon. Strong pain relief was provided before the casualty was handed over and winched into the helicopter for transfer to hospital. We wish her a quick recovery. Many thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT and the crew of Rescue 936 once again. A great team effort again.

 

32. Eskdale - Limited Callout - 14:31 Tue 4th Apr 2023

A call was received from North West Ambulance Service requesting assistance with a person who had collapsed. A callout was made and a team vehicle was quickly dispatched to the scene. On arrival the lady was found to be recovering. After assessment it was agreed that the casualty’s friends/family would use their own vehicle to transfer her to hospital for further checks and so the team stood down at this point. We wish the lady a quick recovery.

 

33. Scafell Pike - Alert - 22:21 Sat 8th Apr 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police yesterday evening. Three walkers were expected to have been in contact with a friend after climbing Scafell Pike. The friend was increasingly concerned for their safety as he could not get in touch via mobile phone. Fortunately as the Team Leader was gathering information the missing walkers sent a text message to let him know they had successfully returned to their vehicles and were preparing to set off home.

 

34. Lingmell Gill Path, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 12:31 Sun 9th Apr 2023

The team was called this afternoon by Cumbria Police regarding a walker who had slipped on the path, sustained a very painful ankle injury and was unable to bear any weight. She was also reported to be cold. A full callout was quickly underway the team vehicles made their way down the valley to Brackenclose. Once on scene the team medics assessed the injury, gave strong pain relief and splinted the ankle to prevent further painful movement from a a suspected fracture. She was then carefully transferred into the team stretcher for the relatively short carry to meet an awaiting ambulance in the valley. Our thanks are due to passing walkers who helped and in particular to John Milton who temporarily donated his sleeping bag to the casualty to keep her warm whilst waiting for the team. We wish the walker a speedy recovery and hope to see her back on the fell soon.

 

35. Scafell Pike - Alert - 23:27 Fri 14th Apr 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police regarding two walkers who were overdue after a walk up Scafell Pike, possibly continuing onto Scafell. They were reported by their two friends who had returned successfully having intentionally split up from the others earlier in the afternoon. As the Team Leader was gathering information the missing pair thankfully turned up in Eskdale at the Woolpack pub. This was very welcome news as the prospect of covering a huge search area over the two mountains from an intended upper Eskdale egress was a significant challenge. It’s unknown what caused the late arrival, but it’s worth a reminder that Upper Eskdale is a vast and remote area and requires an early start, and good navigational skills, including map and compass, especially in the dark. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

36. Cam Spout, Scafell - Alert - 07:26 Sun 16th Apr 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police requesting assistance for a walker who had made some navigational errors after an early morning summit of Scafell Pike. Trying to descend back down to Wasdale, he had got onto some difficult ground to the West of Cam Spout Crag in Eskdale. Fortunately with the aid of an accurate Phonefind location he was able to be redirected by the Team Leader uphill to the ridge between Scafell and Slight Side. At this point our friends at Duddon and Furness successfully continued the ‘talk off’ to allow the Team Leader to attend pre-arranged medical training in base. Thanks to them for the cover provided once again. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better.

 

37. Brown Tongue, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 20:50 Sun 16th Apr 2023

The team was called by North West Ambulance Service regarding a walker who has taken a tumble fall of 5-10m and had sustained multiple injuries, including a head injury and deep cuts to his leg. The Team Leader made a swift callout and also asked an advance party to get to the scene quickly. Once on scene a medical assessment was made, and the casualty was treated and given pain relief. He was then transferred to the stretcher and carefully taken back to Brackenclose to the waiting land ambulance for the onward journey to hospital. We wish the walker a very quick recovery. He was incredibly stoic, having sustained his injuries at the bottom of Mickledore gully on the scree, and somehow getting close to the stream crossing before calling for help.

 

38. Broad Crag Col, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 15:09 Tue 18th Apr 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about a walker who had fallen, hit their head and were now unable to walk any further. The location was established via Phonefind to be close to Broad Crag Col. Helimed 58 responded quickly due to the nature of the injuries reported, and landed close to the Scafell Pike summit, leaving a walk down to the casualty for the helicopter medical crew. The Wasdale team also mobilised with all three team vehicles to support a long carry off should that have been required. Once on scene the Helimed 58 crew assessed and treated the casualty, but then requested a Coastguard helicopter with winching capability as the safest and quickest evacuation for the casualty. Rescue 936 from Caernarfon was duly dispatched and, once on scene, winched the casualty for onward transfer to hospital. This allowed the Wasdale team to stand-down having mainly observed the skilful flying on the way up, but also helped with stabilising the winch. It’s important for us all to keep going in these circumstances just in case the aircraft are diverted for technical or prioritisation reasons. Our thanks once again to the crews of both aircraft, some excellent multi-agency teamwork to get the best outcome for the walker. We hope she has a swift recovery from her injuries and is back on the fells soon.

 

39. Netherbeck, Wasdale - Full Callout - 16:55 Tue 18th Apr 2023

With incident 38 in full swing, a further call was received from North West Ambulance Service about a walker who had fallen and had broken her wrist. Communications were difficult in that area with messages being relayed from scene via a text ‘relay’ to NWAS. With many resources being committed to the ongoing incident a further callout was made and some team members that were already in base responded quickly. Fortunately as they were setting off on foot they met up with the casualty who had managed to walk off themselves. Team medics made an assessment and then splinted the wrist, and then the partner drove the injured walker to hospital in their own vehicle. We wish her a speedy recovery.

 

40. Scafell Pike Summit, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 12:08 Sun 23rd Apr 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Poilce about a walker who had taken a fall very close to Scafell Pike summit. She had potentially fractured her wrist and was becoming increasingly cold with the wind chill at the summit. The Team Leader made a full team callout and also asked RAF Leeming MRT for support as they were training in the area. Due to the condition of the walker and the time needed to reach her, Helimed 08 was also asked to assist. They were able to respond quickly and land close by, assess and treat the walker and then fly her to hospital. This allowed both Wasdale and the RAF team to stand down. Thanks to the crew of Helimed 08 and RAF Leeming MRT for their help. We wish the walker a swift recovery.

 

41. Whin Rigg - Alert - 22:00 Sat 29th Apr 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about an overdue walker. He had set off at 0900 that morning and his friend had become concerned for his safety once darkness fell. Happily he turned up safe and well after after a long day out on the fells as the Team Leader was gathering information.

 

42. Scafell Pike - Alert - 09:39 Sun 30th Apr 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about a walker who had become separated from the rest of his group. There was some concern due to lack of additional clothing to stay warm, but as the Team Leader was making a Limited Callout the walker managed to regain contact with his group, allowing a very swift stand-down. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better.

 

43. Corridor Route, Scafell Pike - Alert - 19:42 Sun 30th Apr 2023

We were called by Keswick MRT via Cumbria Police about a report from a walker who was concerned about another walking group of five descending from Scafell Pike along the Corridor Route. The Keswick and Wasdale Team Leaders discussed the situation (they were currently on our ‘patch’ but possibly aiming to walk into Borrowdale) and decided that no action was to be taken at that time as there was no indication that assistance was required. Keswick MRT later received a further call requesting assistance as they were now at the Styhead stretcher box and in need of help to get back to their cars at Seathwaite. They deployed along with RAF Leeming (see KMRT callout #36), and the Wasdale Team Leader stood down.

 

44. Corridor Route, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 13:26 Mon 1st May 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about a walker who had turned over on her ankle and was unable to weight bear. Due to poor signal it took a while to determine that the location was on the Corridor Route but in the meantime a full callout was made. Due to slightly low numbers support was also requested from Duddon and Furness MRT for a potentially long carry. Once on scene the team medics assessed and treated the walker before carefully transferring to the stretcher for the long carry to Wasdale Head and rendezvous with a land ambulance. Thanks to Duddon MRT for their help once again. We wish the walker a swift recovery and hope she’s back on the fell soon.

 

45. Eskdale - Alert - 23:18 Sun 7th May 2023

The team was called last night by Cumbria Police about a walker who was overdue from a walk from Eskdale YHA. He had sent a message earlier in the afternoon from the Langdale YHA saying he was returning via the Langdale summits. On that basis the Team Leader made contact with the Team Leader at Langdale Ambleside MRT. Fortunately, as initial plans were being formed the walker turned up safe and well at Eskdale YHA and both teams stood down. Thanks to LAMRT for their support.

 

46. Mosedale - Full Callout - 12:43 Tue 9th May 2023

The team was called by North West Ambulance Service about a walker who had suddenly become very unwell. Other walkers had stopped to help but with no mobile signal, one of them descended to Wasdale Head to phone 999. The team responded quickly but by the time they reached him, the walker had recovered and was walking back himself to Wasdale Head. After an assessment by the team Casualty Carers, he was able to continue walking slowly off the fell. At Wasdale Head he was handed over to a land ambulance for further medical assessment and transfer to hospital. Our last tasking on this callout was to look after the walker’s dog back at base. Thanks to the team member who patiently waited for many hours before the dog could be reunited with family. We hope the walker has a speedy recovery.

 

47. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 03:43 Wed 10th May 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about two walkers who had split up from their original group on the fell and then had not returned back to Borrowdale as expected. They had parted ways close to the top of Scafell Pike the previous evening, could not be contacted by mobile phone (possibly out of battery by this point) and had limited equipment to keep warm. With a vast area to search, the Team Leader asked neighbouring teams to search the obvious routes in their ares and Duddon and Furness MRT were asked to cover Upper Eskdale. Available search dogs were also drafted in to help sweep larger areas. The missing people were found by a search dog at about 11am in the far reaches of Upper Eskdale, cold but otherwise well. They were then helped off the fell by Duddon and Furness team members for the long walk back to the road. Thanks to all of the other teams and dogs that supported this search, happily a good outcome this time.

 

48. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 11:30 Wed 10th May 2023

After a good outcome to our overnight search, we were stood down and making our way off the hill. However, our search dog Jess clearly hadn't heard the radio messages and alerted us to a lone walker at the top of Piers Gill. The walker had suffered from a fall, was carrying a minor injury, and struggling to continue. Team members provided assistance and helped the walker back to Wasdale. It is somewhat unusual to find our own job, but he was very grateful to see red jackets emerge from the mist in his hour of need!

 

49. Great Gable - Alert - 16:52 Wed 10th May 2023

In the third tasking of the day a lone walker was struggling to find a safe way off the summit of Great Gable and asked for help. The Team Leader was able to talk to the walker with a good mobile signal and provided support remotely to guide him onto the Styhead path. Regular contact was maintained as signal allowed and a later the grateful walker confirmed he was safely back at Wasdale Head. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

50. Slight Side, Scafell - Full Callout - 21:23 Wed 10th May 2023

In the fourth and last callout of the day, two walkers found themselves on steep ground on the Eskdale side of Slight Side. With little or no mobile signal and some potentially dangerous steep ground to negotiate to get to safety, the walkers were asked to stay put and the team were called out to locate and escort the walkers out. After a long walk in, with teams both above and below the walkers, they were successfully located and helped down into Upper Eskdale. The walkers were then escorted off and brought back to base to pick up a taxi to their intended location at Wasdale Head. With the first callout of the day starting at 03:43 and the last team members leaving base at about 06:00 the next day it proved to be a long day at the ‘office’. All four callouts were due to walkers losing their way in the mist, so it’s worth another reminder that the right knowledge, skills and gear are needed to navigate on the high fells in misty weather. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

51. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 14:55 Sat 13th May 2023

The team was called yesterday about a walker who had fallen and sustained a head injury and a suspected fractured wrist on the descent from Scafell Pike. A full callout was made, and due to slightly low numbers for a long carry additional support was once again requested and provided by Duddon and Furness MRT. As the team was ascending Helimed 08 became available and also responded. They were able to fly onto Lingmell Col and make the last part of the journey on foot to the casualty. They arrived first and treated the walker, before Wasdale team members arrived on scene and assisted her to the helicopter for the onward flight to hospital. Many thanks to the Helimed 08 crew and to Duddon and Furness MRT. We wish the walker a speedy recovery.

 

52. Wastwater Screes - Full Callout - 17:36 Sat 13th May 2023

As the team was waiting for the helicopter to depart from the previous callout, a second call was received from Cumbria Police. A walker on the Screes lakeshore was in need of assistance. Details and exact location were not available as the message was relayed from people on the lake, with no phone signal from the casualty himself. The team boat was dispatched from base and other Wasdale and Duddon and Furness MRT team members redirected from the first incident. However, when the boat arrived in the expected location they were informed that the casualty had already been ferried across the lake by a canoeist. After the boat team had caught up with the casualty, a medical assessment was made and happily the walker was well enough to return to his hotel.

 

53. Grains Gill - Alert - 18:25 Sat 13th May 2023

On Saturday afternoon, whilst incident #51 and 52 were still ongoing, we got a call from Cumbria Police about the now famous Akita dog, Rocky. On checking the grid reference it was out of our patch and so was transferred to Keswick MRT. They duly took the job on and got the deserved plaudits from a lovely dog rescue

 

54. Hardknott Pass - Full Callout - 12:30 Sun 14th May 2023

We were called on Sunday afternoon by North West Ambulance Service about a cyclist who had misjudged a downhill bend at speed, veered off the road and took a tumble off her bike. She was unable to move, with facial injuries and concerns also about her back and shoulder. A normal road ambulance is unable to safely negotiate the steep gradients of Hardknott Pass. A full callout was made with two team vehicles dispatched from base. Once on scene casualty carers assessed and treated the cyclist and carefully transferred to a team stretcher. A short carry was made to the waiting ambulance at Jubilee Bridge, before a handover and subsequent transfer to hospital. We wish the cyclist well and a quick recovery.

 

55. Bowfell - - 15:18 Sun 14th May 2023

As the team was returning to base from the previous callout, a further call was received from Cumbria Police. A lone walker was lost in the cloud on the Eskdale side of Bowfell. Mobile phone signal was extremely patchy at best and Phone Find texts were not being received. A limited callout was made, and also a similar small team was dispatched by Duddon and Furness MRT from Cockley Beck. As the teams were walking in, a grid reference was able to be determined from the walker’s phone, and so she was able to be located reasonably easily. Two Members of the Duddon team then kindly escorted the walker back to her intended destination of Langdale and the teams stood down.

 

56. Yewbarrow - Alert - 19:22 Mon 15th May 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police about two overdue walkers from a walk up Yewbarrow. A family member was concerned as it was several hours after they were expected back. The Team Leader was in the process of checking car parks and local hostelries, and gathering more information when the news came through that both walkers had turned up safe and well. The team was then stood down.

 

57. Wastwater Screes - Full Callout - 16:04 Fri 19th May 2023

As members of the team were starting to set up a team barbecue on a sunny Friday afternoon, we were called by Cumbria Police about two people reporting themselves stuck on the Screes on the South side of Wast Water. They also had a dog with them. Fortunately as part of the plan to be able to respond for exactly this event, the boat had already been made ready to transport to the lake - just in case! An advance foot party was also tasked to locate the casualty party. On this occasion the foot party was first on scene, and they were able to guide them carefully into the arriving boat for the short transfer back to the pump house at the West shore of the lake. The team then redeployed back to Wasdale Youth Hostel to catch up on the Barbecue with no further call-outs in the evening .

 

58. Lingmell Col, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 12:23 Sat 20th May 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police in the first of three calls on Saturday afternoon. A very experienced walker had slipped, sustained an injury to his knee and was now unable to bear any weight. A full callout was made with extra support once again requested from our friends at Duddon and Furness MRT for a potentially long carry. However, whilst team members were arriving at base, a second potentially urgent call was received and diversion to this callout delayed our response. Due to the delay Helimed H08 then became available to help and was available to land close to the casualty, treat and the evacuate him to hospital. Team members arrived on scene in time to take some nice footage of the departing helicopter! Thanks to the crew of Helimed 08 for their help once again. We wish the walker a swift recovery.

 

59. Brown Tongue, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 13:55 Sat 20th May 2023

In the second call of the afternoon a report was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had collapsed and was not responsive. As some team members were in base assembling for the first callout, a team vehicle was despatched within three minutes of the call. Swift progress was made up the valley, however whilst en-route better news was received that the walker had recovered significantly and was now conscious and breathing. Once on scene the casualty carers performed further assessment and provided some treatment to help her recover further. After this she was able to walk slowly down into the valley for further observation by the awaiting land ambulance. We wish her a swift recovery.

 

60. Brown Tongue, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 17:43 Sat 20th May 2023

As team members were back at the vehicles having dealt with two previous callouts a passing walker informed us that a someone had fallen and sustained a suspected broken ankle at the intake wall on the main tourist path. This was confirmed by a call received from Cumbria Police. Both Duddon and Wasdale teams mobilised once more, and retraced steps to the casualty site. Once on scene casualty carers assessed and splinted the very painful injury. Strong pain relief was administered to make the casualty more comfortable. Once transferred carefully into the team stretcher and casualty bag the teams made the carry back down to Brackenclose. A handover was made to a land ambulance before the onward journey to hospital. We wish the casualty a swift recovery and hope to see her back on the fell soon. Many thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT for their help on all three callouts during a busy afternoon.

 

61. Scafell - Full Callout - 02:01 Tue 23rd May 2023

An early call from Cumbria Police was received regarding two walkers who had set off for a walk up Scafell at 12:30 the previous day and had not returned as expected. Another family member had received texts through the night indicating they were lost and struggling to find their way down. As the conditions were favourable time was allowed for them to return under their own steam. However, when this had not occurred, a full callout was made at approximately 0630. Lake District Mountain Rescue Search Dogs were also requested to help due to the very large search area. However as the search teams were mobilising, news was received that the missing pair had turned up safe and well in Eskdale, and the teams stood down. Thanks to the search dogs and handlers that had agreed to help. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

62. Scafell Pike - Alert - 17:18 Tue 23rd May 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police. Two walkers had split from the main group on the descent from Scafell Pike, and were now overdue. However, as the Team Leader was gathering information, the news arrived that they had turned up safe and well and were reunited with their friends. The team was then stood down. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

63. Corridor Route, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 18:00 Tue 23rd May 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a lone walker who had taken a tumble on the Corridor Route. He had injured his knee and was unable to move. A full callout was swiftly made. Once on scene, team Casualty Carers assessed and then splinted his leg, that had both ankle and knee injuries. After packaging in a casualty bag and stretcher, the long carry was made to Gavel Neese with a mixture of sledging and using the stretcher wheel. The walker was then transferred to a team vehicle to the car park at Wasdale Head, to meet the land ambulance for the handover. We wish the walker a swift recovery and hope he gets back to his fundraising walks very soon.

 

64. Scafell - Alert - 16:01 Wed 24th May 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about two walkers who were concerned for their safety on rocky and unstable ground. Shortly afterwards a successful Phonefind confirmed they had managed to make their way back onto the path. Further Phonefinds gave confirmation to the Team Leader that all was well on their descent. Later the walkers confirmed they were safely off the hill without the need for a team callout. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

65. Eskdale - Alert - 17:05 Thu 25th May 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a two walkers who had separated earlier in the day and then one had not been able to be contacted for nearly 7 hours and was considered overdue. Another team member was asked to look for the missing walker’s car in Eskdale, and happily found the person in the car park at Wha House. The team then stood down.

 

66. Gosforth - Limited Callout - 19:26 Sat 27th May 2023

The team received a call yesterday evening from North West Ambulance Service requesting assistance to access and transport a patient who lived a distance away from a paved road. It was unsure whether the land ambulance could access safely. A small team of two local team members were asked to drive the team Land Rover and stand by. In the event, the ambulance was able to access the patient and transport to hospital without assistance, but we were there just in case.

 

67. Tongue Pots, Eskdale - Full Callout - 12:54 Sun 28th May 2023

The team received a call from Cumbria Police yesterday afternoon about someone who had jumped into the pools at Tongue Pot in Upper Eskdale and had suffered a dislocated shoulder. A full callout was quickly made, as these injuries are typically extremely painful. Helicopter support was unavailable at this time as they were all committed to other tasking. Once on scene the casualty was assessed and treated with strong pain relief. At this point Coastguard helicopter Rescue 199 became available from Prestwick and was able to evacuate the shoulder casualty directly to hospital. This saved a long carry which would also have been very uncomfortable for the casualty. Thanks to R199 for their support, and also for the swift return of the stretcher to base shortly afterwards.

 

68. Tongue Pots, Eskdale - Full Callout - 12:54 Sun 28th May 2023

Whilst incident number 67 was ongoing, a second casualty also presented themselves for help whilst on scene with a laceration to their foot. This was fortunately relatively minor and after applying a dressing they were able to walk out to the road.

 

69. Lingmell Col, Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 20:34 Mon 29th May 2023

The team received a call yesterday evening from Cumbria Police about a lone walker who was tired and worried about being able to safely return to Seathwaite in the dark. She had no torch, was inexperienced on the high fells and had low battery life on her mobile phone. She had set off in the afternoon at 2.30pm. As she was not lost and on a path with walkers still on the fell, she was advised to take the shorter route down to Wasdale with others from other groups. However, contact was lost and she did not confirm she was safely back in a valley overnight, so a search was initiated by both Keswick MRT and Wasdale in the morning. Search dogs were also called out. Fortunately shortly after the callout it was confirmed that she had made it safely down, after spending the night somewhere around Middleboot Knotts. It’s a good reminder that although the nights are short at this time of the year, adequate equipment is still needed if there are delays or things go wrong. Also that a walk up Scafell Pike can take many hours depending on starting point and route, conditions, experience and fitness so give yourself plenty of time. We wish the walker well after her adventure. Please share freely to raise awareness, but please refrain from criticism, as this could indirectly prevent others from asking for help from us in the future. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

70. Lingmell Nose - Full Callout - 16:42 Tue 30th May 2023

The team received a call yesterday afternoon from North West Ambulance Service about a walker who had slipped, fallen and sustained an ankle injury. After attempting to carry on she was unable to bear any weight without significant pain. A full team callout ensued and after a warm and steep ascent up Lingmell nose, found the casualty party. Casualty carers then assessed the walker, provided some further pain relief and splinted the ankle. The walker was then carefully transferred to the stretcher and brought back down to Brackenclose with a mixture of sledging and using the wheel. She was then transferred to the walking party’s car for transport to hospital. We hope she has a swift recovery and enjoys the remainder of her holiday.

 

71. Seathwaite - Alert - 22:02 Sat 3rd Jun 2023

The team received a call yesterday evening about a walker who had slipped and injured her ankle and back whilst descending Scafell Pike towards Seathwaite. As information became available it was confirmed that the location of the walker was outside of our area in Ruddy Gill and therefore in Keswick MRT’s patch. The job was then handed over and the walker was successfully rescued by Keswick MRT.  

 

72. St Bees Head - Full Callout - 10:51 Tue 6th Jun 2023

The team received a call from Cumbria Police from someone reporting a lone walker with an injured ankle. The person was unable to help the walker to the nearest road and so had called for help. Several team members deployed direct but were unable to find anyone at the expected location. A search in the local area was coordinated, with more team members arriving in team vehicles from base, and also the local Coastguard team searching the coastline. Happily, after about an hour Cumbria Police confirmed they had found the person and the team stood down.  

 

73. Moasdale - Alert - 21:08 Sat 10th Jun 2023

The team received a call from Cumbria Police yesterday evening about a walker who had slipped, injured their ankle and could not continue. The location via Phonefind was near to Stonesty Pike in Moasdale, which confirmed that they were in Langdale Ambleside MRT’s area. However they were already tasked on another callout so they subsequently asked Duddon and Furness MRT to cover this for them. We hope the walker recovers quickly.

 

74. Scafell Pike - Alert - 17:24 Mon 12th Jun 2023

The team received a call from Cumbria Police about two walkers who had spilt up early into a walk up Scafell Pike. The first had completed his walk and was concerned for his friend who had turned back but was now not able to be found in the valley. Neighbouring teams were alerted in case a wider search was needed, but shortly afterwards the missing walker was reported to have turned up and all teams stood down. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

75. Mickledore, Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 16:11 Wed 14th Jun 2023

The team received a call from Cumbria Police about a walker who had taken a wrong turn from her intended route from the summit and then taken a fall. She was also feeling dizzy and faint. The walker was given directions to descend slowly and a small team was called out to walk up and meet her. Once on scene, after an assessment, the walker was able to slowly continue to walk down to the valley under her own steam. Once on the valley, the team stood down after giving advice to rest and rehydrate further.

 

76. Brown Tongue, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 15:16 Fri 16th Jun 2023

The team received a call this afternoon from Cumbria Police about a walker who had collapsed whilst descending Scafell Pike. A passing doctor was on scene and his concern was a serious heat related illness. Mountain Leaders on the hill called it in and also other members of the public were assisting. The team were swiftly called out and also Helimed 58 responded quickly from Langwathby. Five Duddon and Furness MRT team members also just happened to be close by and responded quickly. The Helimed crew arrived first and assessed and treated the walker whilst the MR team members ascended as swiftly as possible in the heat. Once stabilised, the quickest evacuation route for the walker involved an uphill stretcher carry, and thanks to some skilful flying to relocate the helicopter by the H58 pilot the effort was significantly reduced. After the short carry the walker was transferred to the aircraft and then flown to hospital to continue his treatment. All in all, a great team effort by members of the public and the teams involved to get the best outcome for the walker, and we wish him a swift recovery. Our thanks to all parties involved.

 

77. Wastwater Screes - Full Callout - 16:47 Sat 17th Jun 2023

The team received a call this afternoon from Cumbria Police about a party of three adults and a dog who had lost confidence that the could safely negotiate the lakeshore route at the bottom of the Screes, potentially having gone upwards rather than staying close to the lake. Like many others, they probably found that traversing the boulder fields and/or very loose scree pushed them out of their comfort zone. Some dogs can find it very difficult too. The standard team response was initiated, involving a foot party and a boat party to provide the easiest and quickest rescue, with a further small ‘receiving’ team based on the road side of the lake. However on this occasion we found no people to rescue. Whilst searching with the boat was ongoing, a further message was received from Cumbria Police that the party had managed to self rescue after all, and in the absence of a stable phone signal had been unable to make contact with us. The team was then stood down and returned to base. Edit: The National Trust have recently improved the signage at both ends of the route which should help, but probably won’t avoid all callouts.

 

78. Brown Tongue, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 13:39 Tue 20th Jun 2023

The first involved a walker who had slipped and injured his ankle and was unable to bear weight without significant pain. He had attempted to make his own way off the fell for a long time before a passing walker had called it in and asked for help on his behalf. The team was called and arrived on scene. After an assessment, the walker was still keen to get off himself with some team assistance, but after a short time it became obvious that a stretcher carry was needed. He reluctantly conceded to this and a routine carry was undertaken off the fell to Brackenclose. He then met up with family members who transported him in their vehicle with advice for further assessment at hospital. ‘The ultimate in stoicism’ was a phrase used by a Team Leader for this casualty! We wish him all the best for a swift recovery.

 

79. Slight Side, Scafell - Full Callout - 14:43 Tue 20th Jun 2023

In the second call of the afternoon a walker was reported to have suffered a suspected broken upper arm after a fall close to the summit of Slight Side. His friend had walked off the fell to raise the alarm. Due to the ongoing incident in Wasdale, more team members were needed in case of the extended stretcher carry and so our friends at Duddon and Furness MRT were asked to be on standby for that. However, the Wasdale party had not long set off on foot from Eskdale, when the welcome sound of the helicopter was heard. Coastguard helicopter R199 from Prestwick had been was able to attend, and then was able to land close by and retrieve the grateful walker. This saved the casualty time with much discomfort from a painful injury with a stretcher carry. Both Duddon and Wasdale teams were then able to stand down. We wish the walker a quick recovery. Many thanks to the crew of Rescue 199 and Duddon and Furness MRT once again.

 

80. East Buttress, Scafell - Full Callout - 23:14 Wed 21st Jun 2023

A late evening call came on Wednesday night when Cumbria Police alerted us to a lone walker who was cragfast. This was initially reported to be on Broad Stand, but on checking the coordinates from the police call, was confirmed to be slightly further South to our ‘normal’ crag job on the East Buttress of Scafell. 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. Coastguard helicopter support was requested quickly, as a ‘pick off’ winch by them might have been possible. However cloud had descended in the area and, after several attempts, Rescue 199 from Prestwick returned home for fuel, and the teams made their way up the hill for a rope rescue. Extra support was then requested and given by Duddon and Furness MRT. 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 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. The Wasdale team was now in position and a rescuer descended to the cragfast person. The team members below at Mickledore needed to guide the rescuer to the correct location as this was not visible from above. 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 and walker were very grateful for the support from the crew of R936 who gave lifts back down to the valley after a long night. The remaining two (unlucky!) Wasdale team members de-rigged and descended by foot back to the valley, as again the helicopter was low on fuel and had to depart. 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 MRT once again. We’re also sorry if local residents were disturbed by the helicopter activity. A tricky job with great teamwork, and an excellent outcome.

 

81. Scafell - Full Callout - 15:23 Fri 23rd Jun 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about two walkers who found themselves on steep ground on Scafell and felt it was unsafe to continue in any direction. Initial information was lacking in much detail due to the poor signal and it was not possible to make further contact. However a location was fortunately obtained from the initial police call. A full callout was made to investigate and assist the walkers back to safety. However, as the team were mobilising, a further call was received from the police to say that the walkers had been in touch again. They had been helped by a passing climber and they were now back on safe ground. The log was left open as a precaution overnight, as a request was texted to the walkers to confirm they had to confirm they had reached their intended destination down in the valley. This was not received until the following morning, again due to poor mobile signal in Eskdale. Our thanks to the climber involved, as it saved us a lot of time and effort in wet conditions.

 

82. Skew Gill, Great End - Full Callout - 16:03 Fri 23rd Jun 2023

A second call on Friday afternoon was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had rolled over on her ankle and had suffered a suspected fracture. Two passing walkers had assisted greatly by walking some distance to obtain mobile signal and call 999. They had also shown initiative to investigate the Keswick MRT Styhead stretcher box and obtain some emergency equipment from there to keep the walker and her daughter warm and sheltered. A full callout was already in progress from the previous alert so the team were diverted to make their way in increasingly wet, windy and cold conditions. Once on scene, team Casualty Carers assessed the walker. She had indeed obtained a painful injury to her lower leg which needed to be aligned and splinted. Strong analgesia was also given to make the long stretcher carry as comfortable as possible. After ‘packaging’ in the team stretcher, the walker was carefully carried back to Wasdale Head. With impeccable timing, a land ambulance arrived at exactly the right moment and a handover was made, before the walker was transferred to hospital for further treatment. We wish her a swift recovery and hope to see her back on the fells soon. Many thanks to the two passing walkers who had helped and had stayed on scene until we arrived.

 

83. Hardknott Pass - Full Callout - 06:31 Sat 24th Jun 2023

An early start to the day when North West Ambulance Service alerted us to a cyclist who had fallen off his bike and sustained head and hip injuries. A full callout was swiftly made due to the nature of the injuries. Once on scene the team Casualty Carers assessed and treated the injuries whilst awaiting the land ambulance. After a handover, team members returned to base and restocked the vehicles ready for the next tasking. We wish the cyclist a swift recovery.

 

84. Buckbarrow, Wasdale - Full Callout - 14:52 Sat 24th Jun 2023

The team were called by Cumbria Police about two walkers, one of whom was unable to walk any further, having developed knee problems and was in significant pain. They had walked much further than planned due to difficulties navigating in the mist. After a discussion over the phone with the Team Leader, a full callout was made and team members made their way to the casualty’s location. After an assessment she was ‘packaged’ into the casualty bag and stretcher and carried off the hill back down to Greendale for onward transport in their own vehicle. We hope she has a swift recovery.

 

85. Mosedale - Alert - 22:22 Sat 24th Jun 2023

The team were called by Cumbria Police about a walker who was overdue. A friend was concerned that he had not been heard from for some time and was not contactable after a long walk in Mosedale. As details of his car were known, a local team member was asked to search all car parks in Wasdale. Fortunately the walker was discovered safe and well at his car at Wasdale Head and no further activity was necessary. (A busy night for ‘3 peakers’ too with many head torches visible up the main tourist path up the ‘Pike!)

 

86. Dropping Crag, Scafell Pike - Alert - 06:15 Mon 26th Jun 2023

The team were called early on Monday morning by Cumbria Police about two walkers who had become lost the evening before and then spent an unplanned, tiring and uncomfortable night in the mist. A successful Phonefind put them not far from the summit around Dropping Crag. The Team Leader was then able to carefully guide them towards the summit to reset their location and attempt a ‘walk off’ over the phone. However, shortly afterwards they met up with other walkers who helped guide them off the fell. Our thanks to them for their help. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

87. Cold Fell - Alert - 22:18 Tue 27th Jun 2023

The team was alerted by Cumbria Police about a lone walker who was overdue. However, as further information was gathered it was clarified that the location was outside of our operational area and so the tasking was transferred to Cockermouth MRT.

 

88. Lingmell Col, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 12:12 Thu 29th Jun 2023

The team was alerted by Cumbria Police about a walker who had fallen and sustained a head injury. A full callout was quickly made and due to the nature of the injury and the length of time it would take the team to arrive and then evacuate from the fell, air support was also requested. Helimed 58 duly responded and was on scene within about 30 minutes. The injured walker was then transferred in the helicopter to hospital for further assessment and treatment. The Wasdale team was then stood down. Thanks to the Helimed crew for their help once again.

 

89. Scafell Pike - Alert - 12:14 Sat 1st Jul 2023

The team was alerted by Cumbria Police about a possible search for a missing person somewhere on Scafell Pike. Due to the large area and number of routes to be covered the Duty Team Leader at Duddon and Furness MRT was also notified by us. However, after a short time the police made contact again to let us know that the person had been located and both teams stood down. Thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT once again for their support and readiness to help us out at any time.

 

90. Beck Head, Great Gable - Full Callout - 16:00 Sat 1st Jul 2023

Both Wasdale and Cockermouth MRTs responded together to assist GNAAS with the call out below. Facebook We would like to add our sincere condolences to his family, friends and workmates at this sad time. Our thoughts are with you all.

 

91. Scafell Pike - Alert - 00:56 Sun 2nd Jul 2023

The Duty Team Leader received a call from Cumbria Police on Saturday night. A walking party had split up from one of their walkers and were concerned for her safety as she had not returned to the valley floor. However, as further information was being gathered, the walker turned up safe and well, which allowed the thankful Team Leader to return to his bed.

 

92. Foxes Tarn, Scafell - Full Callout - 15:36 Sun 2nd Jul 2023

Another call was received on Sunday afternoon. Cumbria Police alerted us to a lone walker who was tragically reported to be deceased by another passing walker. Support from Coastguard helicopter R199 was requested, and they were able to give lifts to multiple team members and equipment as far as the cloud base would allow. The team then continued on foot to the reported location and with the utmost care and respect recovered the walker to an accessible location to enable another helicopter lift off the fell. Our thanks to the R199 crew for their valued support. Our thoughts and sincere condolences go to the walker’s family and friends.

 

93. Scafell - Alert - 18:03 Sun 2nd Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a party of three walkers who had split up near the summit of Scafell. The single walker was now overdue and the others were concerned for his safety. Thankfully, as the Team Leader was gathering more information, the walker turned up in the valley safe and well and the incident was closed.

 

94. Red Gill, Scafell - Limited Callout - 13:50 Mon 3rd Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a lone walker who had become stuck on steep ground, somewhere around Lord’s Rake. A limited group of team members and drone pilots were called out to assist. With mobile reception very patchy in that area the Phonefind was less accurate than normal so the exact location was not known. When in the area team members split into smaller groups and located the walker in Red Gill, fortunately not in too serious a predicament. He was then carefully assisted back down to safe ground and all members descended back to Brackenclose.

 

95. Broad Crag - - 14:07 Wed 5th Jul 2023

The team received a call from Cumbria Police about a walker who had fallen and suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder. As the location was high up near Broad Crag summit, helicopter support was requested via GNAAS. Helimed 58 responded quickly. Numbers were slightly low for a potentially difficult stretcher carry so extra numbers were provided by Duddon and Furness MRT. Unfortunately the cloud base had dropped and when H58 arrived, direct access was not possible to the casualty, and they also had to refuel for a longer tasking . As such the larger capacity Coastguard helicopter R199 agreed to support us and mobilise from Prestwick. In the meantime team members ascended into the mist and were able to assess the casualty. He bravely was able to walk with assistance for a while which saved a period of hazardous stretcher carry for us over very tricky ground. He was then transferred to a stretcher for the remaining distance to Lingmell Col where a suitable landing site below the cloud had been located. A transfer to the helicopter took place and the walker was taken to hospital for further treatment. The teams then descended back to the valley and returned to respective bases to restock the vehicles for the next callout. We wish the walker a swift recovery, and huge thanks once again to the crews of R199 and H58 for their help.

 

96. Wastwater Screes - Full Callout - 16:10 Thu 6th Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police regarding two walkers. They had two dogs but one of them was spooked and refused to move any further on a boulder field. The terrain makes it extremely difficult to make safe progress in this situation so the team were called out. The well established process of a team on foot, a boat team to ‘pick off’ and a receiving team on the opposite side of the lake was implemented. Other than the weather deteriorating there were no problems and the walkers and dogs were transferred to much friendlier ground and carried on their way. The team then returned to base and stood down.

 

97. Scafell Pike Summit, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 12:37 Sun 9th Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had taken a fall from standing close to the summit of Scafell Pike. She had sustained a head injury and reportedly lost consciousness briefly. Due to the location and nature of the injury, Helimed 08 responded. They arrived quickly and assessed the walker; fortunately she had sustained only minor injuries and was declared fit enough to carry on with her planned descent to Wasdale valley. The team was then stood down and returned to base, having not ascended too far from Brackenclose. We wish the walker well, and thanks to the Helimed 08 crew for their quick response.

 

98. Wastwater Screes - Alert - 19:30 Thu 13th Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police regarding two walkers who were concerned for their safety. The initial coordinates from the police call indicated a location around the Screes lakeshore. A local team member was tasked to investigate but no people requiring help could be found or seen. A short while later, a further call was received saying that other members of the public had helped the couple from their predicament and that MR help was no longer required. The team was then stood down. Our thanks to those that helped and prevented another callout. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

99. Scafell Pike - Alert - 22:33 Thu 13th Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a lone walker who had set off from his accommodation in Eskdale for a walk up Scafell Pike at 9am, but had not returned by 10:30pm. Further information was being gathered and the Team Leader was preparing to initiate a Full Callout for a search when the police reported that he had turned up safe and well at his vehicle. He had had a very long day out on the fell with a few wrong turns but otherwise OK. With some relief the Team Leader closed the log and turned in for the night.

 

100. Sty Head - Alert - 18:19 Sat 15th Jul 2023

Our 100th alert for the year from a calling authority was received from Cumbria Police on Saturday evening. A walker was suffering from the cold and wet conditions and was reported to be taking shelter in what sounded very much like the Keswick MR stretcher box at Styhead. As such, the Team Leader contacted his counterpart in Keswick MR and the tasking was transferred to them (see their callout 68 for more details). https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

101. Piers Gill, Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 20:21 Sat 15th Jul 2023

The joy (or disappointment ) on not having to go out on the fell for the previous alert was short lived; a further call came in for 2 walkers attempting the 3 peaks who had also been caught out unprepared for the difficult conditions. They had taken a wrong turn on the descent and were now wet and cold. They were close to a waterfall. Unfortunately direct contact was not possible due to patchy phone signal on the fell. However, a location was determined from the initial call and as they had been advised to stay put, a limited callout was made to help. The grid reference put them close to the head of Piers Gill, with the waterfall at the top matching the original description. The team set off, but a further call was received stating that they had now met other walkers who were assisting them back down. This was welcome news, and this the team met up with the party more quickly on their descent, and confirmed that they were all safe and well.

 

102. Hollowstones, Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 21:21 Sat 15th Jul 2023

Whist callout 101 was ongoing, a further call was received from Cumbria Police about two walkers who had also become wet and cold and were concerned for their safety. Additional team members were called out, however, the Team Leader was able to walk and talk them down a significant distance with the aid of repeated Phonefind messages. The team located them fairly low down and escorted them back to Brackenclose. The team then returned to base, and after filling up the drying room, restocked the vehicles ready for the next callout. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

103. Wasdale Head - Alert - 01:49 Mon 17th Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police. One of their cars was at Wasdale Head when they noticed flashing lights from torches towards the Screes. It was unclear whether they needed assistance as they appeared to be moving. A local team member was asked to support. However, having walked for a while towards the sighting, they were unable to see or find anything else. It was possible there was a connection with another police report elsewhere in the Lake District so this was monitored until the following day, before formally closing down later in the afternoon.

 

104. Coniston - Alert - 17:06 Thu 20th Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police, however it was quickly established that this was not in our area and that the receiving team had all the resources they needed to respond quickly. As such the tasking was transferred across, and the team was stood down.

 

105. Unknown Location - Alert - 23:11 Thu 20th Jul 2023

A call was received late yesterday evening about a walking party who had become separated, with two of the party now overdue. Happily a short time later, a further call was received to say they had turned up in the valley safe and well, and that help was no longer needed. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

106. Scafell - Limited Callout - 13:56 Sat 22nd Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about two inexperienced walkers who had been separated from their larger walking group. Due to the conditions and because they were not moving they were becoming increasingly cold. A Phonefind location was obtained and the Team Leader gave advice to descend in the correct direction. A small team was called out also to guide down should it be needed, however, before they got boots on the ground at Brackenclose the good news was received that they had been reunited with their group. The team was stood down at this point and returned to base.

 

107. Piers Gill, Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 18:06 Sat 22nd Jul 2023

A second call of the day from Cumbria Police, asking for help for two walkers who were struggling to navigate down to Wasdale Head due to the misty conditions. The location from the initial police call put them very close to the edge of Piers Gill, near the ‘bad step’. A short phone call with a bad signal suggested that they were not on, nor could see the path. A wrong turn at this location can be very hazardous, so the walkers were asked to stay put and await the team arriving to escort off. As such, a small hill party was asked to head to their location. However, when they arrived some time later, there was no sign of the walkers. After some time looking, the team retraced their steps and headed back to base, assuming somehow they had either found their own way off or encountered other walkers who had helped. The log was closed after a further discussion with the police. The following day, once back in mobile signal, the walkers called in to confirm they had indeed managed to find their own way safely off the fell. They hadn’t encountered the team as they expected as the rescue team’s route choice was via Lingmell Nose and Lingmell Col, to avoid potentially risky river crossings due to the heavy rain earlier. PS - a busy night for 3 peakers too as per the photo!

 

108. Pillar - Alert - 11:04 Tue 25th Jul 2023

A call was received yesterday regarding two walkers who had not returned to their accommodation as planned, following an overnight trip to Pillar the day before. The Team Leader made some enquiries and established that they had stayed at a local youth hostel. A couple of hours later their vehicle had left the accommodation so the log was closed. A good outcome.

 

109. Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 22:12 Tue 25th Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police from a person located in the South of England, who was concerned for two family members due to the lack of contact for over eight hours. They had successfully summited Scafell Pike and were last in contact on their descent at approximately 1:30pm. The police were initially following up by checking for their car, which was at their campsite as expected, but were not able to locate the people and thus asked us for our help. Local team members and Jess, the team’s search dog, were asked to respond as further information about their tent was obtained. This information allowed the team to locate their tent and happily find them inside safe and well. Due to the lack of mobile signal at Wasdale Head all forms of communication from Cumbria had not reached their intended destination, as the walking party thought it had. The team members were able to stand down and return home at this point, whilst the Team Leader relayed the good news to the concerned relative. Another good outcome.

 

110. Lingmell Col, Scafell Pike - Alert - 16:04 Sat 29th Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police. A Mountain Leader had come across a lone walker near Lingmell Col who had hurt her ankle and seemed unable to walk any further. She was part of a larger group who had continued to the summit and were due to return. The ML was concerned enough to alert the police as the walker also did not have shelter or extra layers and so she was also becoming cold. As the team leader was gathering further information and considering deploying the team, the walking group returned. After some discussion the walking party and the casualty decided they would attempt to walk down under their own steam, and only call the team out if absolutely necessary. Two hours later, the party was able to confirm that slow progress had made and that they were nearly back to the car park, so the team was stood down. Thanks to the ML for their help in this situation, and we wish the walker a swift recovery.

 

111. St Bees Head - Alert - 12:08 Sun 30th Jul 2023

A call was received about a walker on the beach who had sustained a suspected broken ankle. After the location was confirmed it was agreed that by all parties that the responsibility for this rescue was the the Coastguard and so the team was stood down.

 

112. Sty Head - Alert - 18:27 Sun 30th Jul 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police. A concerned relative had reported 2 walkers that were overdue with a last known location around Sty Head. Due to the location, the Keswick MRT Team Leader was alerted in case there was a need for their support. However, as information was being gathered the good news was received that contact had been made with the walkers, confirming that they were off the fell safe and well, and the teams were able to stand down.

 

113. Scafell Pike - Alert - 22:07 Sun 30th Jul 2023

In the third alert of the day, a call was received from Cumbria Police about a family who had split up on an ascent of Scafell Pike. They had all set off from Seathwaite together but intentionally split into two groups of two. Due to the lack of phone signal on large areas of the Scafell Massif they had lost contact with other, and somehow ended up in completely different locations. Then in two separate phone calls to the police, they were concerned about each others’ whereabouts! Once two and two was put together by the Team Leader (literally!) they were back in contact and the team stood down. This tale is a good reminder to not rely on mobile phone in this area to keep in contact with each other, as there are large areas where signal is patchy at best and non-existent at worst.

 

114. Brown Tongue, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 13:49 Tue 1st Aug 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had injured his leg and could not continue further. A full callout was made swiftly and the team made their way to the location provided by an accurate Phonefind on Brown Tongue. Once on scene members of the team gave a thorough medical assessment and provided extra warmth from a large bivvy shelter with a few hot and sweaty team members inside. After some food and drink the walker was carefully packaged with a casualty bag and heat blanket on the team stretcher to maintain warmth for the carry down to the valley. Happily once in the valley the he had sufficiently recovered to able to be transported in a family vehicle for his onward journey for a precautionary hospital checkup. We hope the walker has recovered quickly. We’d also like to thank the many people who stopped to help before our arrival in a number of different ways.

 

115. Beck Head, Great Gable - Limited Callout - 18:31 Tue 1st Aug 2023

As team members were leaving base for home from the previous callout, a further call was received from Cumbria Police. A third party had reported two walkers that had become stuck between Great Gable and Beck Head, with conditions reported as misty with little visibility and raining. A limited callout was made and a small hill party was tasked to locate and escort the walkers back to safe ground. However, when the team arrived at the reported location there was no indication of anyone in need of help. A short time later, a welcome call was received to confirm the walkers were safe and had reached Black Sail YHA, and so the hill party stood down and returned to base. It’s possible that with improving conditions and visibility, a seemingly precarious and intimidating position became more manageable and enabled a self-rescue. A good outcome.

 

116. Scafell Pike - Alert - 19:54 Thu 3rd Aug 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a lone walker who was overdue from a walk up Scafell Pike. Concerned relatives made the call after there was no contact for many hours after a successful ascent. As the Team Leader was considering next steps, including a large search as the last known location was the summit, good news was received that he had made contact and was safe and well. He had walked out via Eskdale, and a very helpful member of the public was giving him a lift out of the valley. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

117. Mickledore, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 14:09 Sat 5th Aug 2023

A call was received yesterday afternoon from Cumbria Police. A walker was reported to have fallen whilst scrambling, injured his knee and was now not able to walk. After some difficulty in being able to make direct contact to ascertain the exact location and circumstances, a full callout was made. Due to slightly low numbers assistance was requested from Duddon and Furness MRT. Members from Bowland and Pennine MRT also happened to be on the hill and nearby so kindly offered their assistance. Once team members were on scene, a full medical assessment was made, and it was decided that due to the mechanism of injury (a tumble fall of 20m), and a long and difficult stretcher carry out to a road head, helicopter assistance was required. Helimed 58 duly responded and was able to land on flat ground near Pulpit Rock. Attempts to get closer were thwarted by gusty winds. As such, an energy sapping uphill carry was still required, with helicopter medics in attendance, after which the walker was flown to hospital for further assessment and treatment. We wish the walker a swift recovery, and massive thanks to all other MR teams that helped. Thanks also to the Helimed team for getting as close as they could in difficult conditions and terrain. Some fantastic multi-team working once again.

 

118. Scafell Pike - Alert - 20:46 Sat 5th Aug 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker reporting that two of his party were stuck somewhere on a ravine on Scafell Pike. He was initially very confused and was not able to accurately describe his route for the day or where they had become stuck. It became clearer after some time and several police deployments and Team Leader conversations that originally there were four walkers that started out, but after splitting up, one walker was still unaccounted for. The three others were able to be located in two different locations in different valleys. However, the conclusion was that that the missing walker was last seen ascending the Piers Gill path towards the Corridor Route, attempting to get back to Seathwaite in darkness with no means of navigation. Faced with this information, and the inexperience of the walker, preparations began for a search through the night. The Team Leader alerted Keswick MRT, RAF Leeming MRS, Lake District Mountain Rescue Search Dogs and also the Coastguard helicopter for possible deployment. Just as the decision to call the teams out was about to be made, the news was received with some relief that the walker had made it safely down into Borrowdale. Thanks to all the teams that willingly offered their support. There are several things to highlight with this alert: Stick together as a group at all times, unless each sub-group has appropriate skills and equipment. All members of the party should have some awareness of the routes travelled (e.g. the different valleys in the area). Information quality is essential for a quick and effective response. Communications with mobile phone are not reliable on the high fells in Wasdale.

 

119. Wasdale - Alert - 22:10 Sun 6th Aug 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police, about a lone walker that had failed to return to her accommodation. She had left on foot and taken the shuttle bus down to Wasdale Head at 10am. A local team member was tasked to see if she had missed the last bus and then was walking out of the valley, but nothing was seen. With little other information to start to plan a response, news was gratefully received that the walker had turned up safe and well at her accommodation, and the alert was closed.

 

120. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 21:20 Wed 9th Aug 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a lone walker that was walking from Langdale to Wasdale. He was overdue when a text was received by a family member waiting at Wasdale Head for his return. The text indicated that he was struggling to navigate the descent from Scafell Pike due to fog. After this point further attempts to make contact were unsuccessful. After discussions with the family member, with no further information on location, it was decided to start a search early in the morning. Weather conditions were favourable with pretty benign conditions. In the morning team members started a search on the most likely paths in Wasdale and support was agreed with Duddon and Furness MRT to search the Eskdale paths. However not long into the search the missing person was located on the Brown Tongue path, making his own way down. He was a little jaded from the unplanned night out, but otherwise none the worse for wear. A lift back to base was provided, where he was reunited with his family, after which the team stood down. Thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT for their support once again.

 

121. Great Gable - Full Callout - 19:24 Sat 12th Aug 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police on Saturday night about a lone walker who had fallen, with head, knee and ankle injuries. He was near the summit and unable to continue. Conditions were very unfavourable with rain, poor visibility and very windy. As he was intending to sleep on the fell overnight he had a sleeping bag which he was asked to get into whilst awaiting help. Due to slightly low numbers, and the potential for a long and difficult stretcher carry, Keswick MRT were asked to help. Once on scene, extra shelter, insulation, and food and drink was provided, alongside a medical assessment and some pain relief. Following this, the walker was able to walk with some assistance part of the way, however, later a stretcher was required. It was decided that the route down to Seathwaite was the better option from Sty Head, so after some help over the tricky ground initially, the teams went their separate ways and the walker was carried by the Keswick team to an awaiting ambulance for further assessment. Our thanks to Keswick MRT for their help and we wish the walker a swift recovery.

 

122. Scafell Pike - Alert - 19:49 Sun 13th Aug 2023

A call was received via Cumbria Police; a concerned friend was reporting a party of four walkers overdue from their walk up Scafell Pike after over 11 hours since they had set off. They had started and were intending to finish at Seathwaite. Happily after a short time, contact was received from the walkers and they were confirmed to be safe and well at their campsite after a long day of the fell.

 

123. Upper Eskdale - Limited Callout - 20:37 Sun 13th Aug 2023

In the second call of the evening, two walkers were seeking assistance having got lost trying to return to Borrowdale after an ascent of Scafell Pike. Mobile signal was very borderline and all attempts of further conversation proved impossible. However, fortunately they were able to give Cumbria Police their ‘Lat/Long’ coordinates that they had obtained from a mobile phone. It was decided to send two small groups in case they were still moving. It was also not known whether they were adequately equipped for the heavy rain forecasted during the night. Unfortunately for us, this location is one of the most remote on our ‘patch’ (and possibly the whole of the Lake District) so this required long walks in by small groups from both Wasdale and Eskdale. Shortly after setting off, the Eskdale team came across another group of misplaced walkers, unfortunately they were not the group they were looking for. They were 3-peakers who were now likely going to miss their goal with a long walk out to the wrong valley. Eventually the Wasdale group found the casualty party of walkers (as it turned out, three!) in roughly the location expected. The walkers were then escorted back to Wasdale and then to base for the subsequent long and expensive taxi journey. Both parties were not adequately equipped in terms of navigation equipment or skills. Misty conditions do make navigation challenging, and especially so, high on the Scafell Massif. Fortunately on this occasion the only consequences were time, effort, discomfort, missed objectives, cost for taxis, and some damaged pride. However, the risks to safety are very real, both in terms of hypothermia (yes, even in August if there is poor weather) and crag fast or fall risk if walkers stray into the wrong areas. Please share to raise awareness, as many walkers we encounter do still underestimate the difficulty of navigating in mist and/or darkness.

 

124. Wastwater Screes - Alert - 17:03 Fri 18th Aug 2023

We were called yesterday by Cumbria Police about two people in difficulty on the Screes lakeshore. As part of a group of 4, they had originally planned to kayak down the lake from Brackenclose but found themselves unable to progress due to the windy conditions. They decided to abandon their kayak on the Screes side of the lake and planned to walk back to Brackenclose with a third member of their party, whilst one continued on the water. However, without adequate footwear, the boulder fields soon prevented further progress and so they called for help. They were also concerned that the kayaker who had remained on the water had not been seen for some time. The latter information prompted an escalation by Cumbria Police with several other agencies involved for a potentially urgent search of the lake. Thankfully, shortly after their arrival the missing person was located paddling on the water as planned and positively identified. The initial problem was dealt with by some guidance from WMRT team members already in the valley who walked to the "shore party" from Brackenclose. They then gave encouragement and support to progress back to a proper footpath and the Brackenclose car park where their car was parked. The Fire Service helped the lone paddler back to Brackenclose. All teams then stood down and returned to their respective bases. Thank-you to all the agencies who assisted. A good outcome.

 

125. Piers Gill, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 13:08 Sun 20th Aug 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police about two walkers who were reported to be stuck on steep ground inside Piers Gill. A walker on the path on the East side of the gill had noticed them after they were shouting for help. They appeared to be unhurt but this was from a significant distance away. The Team Leader made a swift callout and also contacted Duddon and Furness MRT for additional crag support, knowing this could be a difficult technical rescue in the worst case. Both teams met at Gavel Neese and made their way up to the likely access point. As any rope access into Piers Gill is inherently hazardous, helicopter support was also requested via a Coastguard helicopter with winching capability. Rescue 199 from Prestwick duly attended but unfortunately were not able to effect the rescue via winch due to the weather conditions requiring high power and the resulting significant downdraft creating a real risk to the walkers below. They returned home to their base in Scotland. A rope rescue was therefore needed and the teams rigged a rope system and then descended to the walkers. Once on scene it was quickly realised that the condition of the casualties was more serious than had been thought. The walkers had been stuck in this position for about 24 hours and had suffered injuries from slips and falls. Helicopter support was again requested for a swift evacuation from the scene once the walkers had been evacuated by rope from the gill. Rescue 199 returned and with some tremendous flying were able to land close to the teams for a short transfer. The first casualty was flown down to the valley where other team members made a more thorough assessment. After extraction, R199 then received the second casualty on a stretcher, flew down to the valley, picked up the first casualty, and then flew both to hospital for further assessment and treatment. Team members on the hill then de-rigged and returned to their respective bases to reset the vehicles. We wish both casualties a swift recovery. Thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT and the Rescue 199 crew for their support (twice!) in this callout.

 

126. Scafell Pike - Alert - 23:44 Sun 20th Aug 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police late in the evening. A concerned third party was reporting that a walking party of four was overdue from a walk up Scafell Pike. They had travelled for a day trip from outside of the area and none of the party had been in touch since noon. They were now not contactable on their mobile phones. The Team Leader initiated Phonefind messages, but shortly afterwards the police made contact again to say that they had been able to speak briefly with one of the party. This suggested that they were off the hill, but having vehicle problems. With this good news the tasking was left to the police to later confirm that there was no need for mountain rescue support.

 

127. Scafell - Full Callout - 17:48 Wed 23rd Aug 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police about a male walker who was reported to have slipped on scree very close to the summit of Scafell. He had injured his hip and could not weight bear. A full callout was made and with slightly low numbers for a long stretcher carry Duddon and Furness MRT were again asked for help. After a long pull up via Green How in rapidly deteriorating weather conditions, the casualty site was reached. The walker had actually taken a tumble fall, and alongside the very painful hip injury had suffered multiple minor injuries. A bivvy shelter was established to provide warmth for the casualty, his friend and his dog, as a medical assessment was made. With the arrival of further team members he was made as comfortable as possible in a casualty bag and vacuum mattress, with additional pain relief provided for the stretcher carry. A long and arduous carry then commenced, with no prospect of air support in pretty miserable conditions. Initially this was on steep scree, with slow progress made on wet and unstable ground. Once on the grass a mixture of carrying, sledging and the wheel were used with and without rope protection, according to conditions. After close to four hours, the walker was then handed over to a land ambulance waiting at Brackenclose. He was then transferred to hospital for further assessment and treatment. The respective teams finally returned to bases, overwhelmed their drying rooms and restocked vehicles. We wish the walker well on his recovery and hope to see him back on the fells soon. Huge thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT for their help once again, and also to the passing walker and his son who helped by calling the alert in and providing initial support.

 

128. Styhead Path, Great Gable - Limited Callout - 14:15 Tue 29th Aug 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police about a walker who was reported to have injured her leg and was struggling to walk. The informant had gone to the nearest farm to call for help. As the location was relatively close to road access and low down, a limited callout was made. However, before we could take much action, the farmer kindly went out of their way to drive on their quad bike to meet the walker and then give a lift back to the farm. The other member of the casualty party was then able to transport the walker in their own vehicle onwards for further assessment in hospital. Many thanks to the farmer who helped out. We also would like to wish the walker well in her recovery.

 

129. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 10:20 Wed 30th Aug 2023

We were called by both North West Ambulance Service and Cumbria Police about a walker with symptoms of a medical emergency. An immediate callout was made and also requests for air support due to the position of the casualty high up on Scafell Pike. Rapid mobilisation to the scene from Coastguard Rescue 199, Helimed 08 and Helimed 63 occurred. However, the condition of the walker worsened whilst help was en-route, and despite all attempts by passing walkers and the helicopter crews in attendance he tragically did not survive. Our thanks go to all agencies involved, and especially to the passing walkers. Our thoughts are with the walker’s family and friends, and all involved at this sad time.

 

130. Scoat Fell - Alert - 12:55 Sat 2nd Sep 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police about a walker on Little Scoat Fell who had fallen ill. The Team Leader quickly liaised with our neighbours at Cockermouth MRT as the access/egress route is a quicker option from their side. They kindly agreed and took care of the callout from that point. Our thanks to them for their support.

 

131. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 18:25 Mon 4th Sep 2023

As the team were preparing for training, the first of four calls and three separate incidents in the space of one hour was received from Cumbria Police. We were initially called about a walker who had slipped on the initial descent from Scafell Pike summit. She was unable to bear any weight. Due to the elevation at about 875m a request for Coastguard helicopter support was made, which was responded to by Rescue 912 from Humberside. After a humid walk up to the scene, team casualty carers assessed and treated the ankle, providing splinting and some strong pain relief. The walker was then secured into the stretcher for a carry down to flatter ground at Lingmell Col, where the helicopter was waiting for the transfer. The walker was then flown to hospital for further treatment and the team returned to the vehicles in the valley. We wish the walker well and hope to see her back on the fells soon. Thanks to the crew of Rescue 912 for their help, saving us a long carry to the valley floor.

 

132. Burnmoor Tarn - Full Callout - 18:47 Mon 4th Sep 2023

In the second incident of the evening, two calls were received within 20 minutes. A personal distress beacon was activated close to Burnmoor Tarn. This was followed 20 minutes later by a call from a concerned family member about an overdue solo walker. The two were linked to the same person - sixth sense from the family member? With no other information to go from, and another incident already ongoing, a team was asked to approach from Eskdale. Our friends at Duddon and Furness were also asked for potential extra support. Fortunately there was a Coastguard helicopter already en-route for the previous callout, so they agreed as a priority to investigate from the air as much as possible. They were able to locate the walker. He had fortunately recovered enough by this time to walk under his own stream back towards Brackenclose. He rang 999 shortly afterwards when mobile signal allowed to confirm that he no longer required help; a very long day on the hill in the hot conditions had resulted in exhaustion with no ability at the time to progress. Other team members at Wasdale walked up a short distance to meet the walker and confirmed he was safe and well, and this incident was closed. A good outcome. Thanks to The Rescue 912 crew and to Duddon and Furness MRT for their support.

 

133. Scafell Pike - - 19:23 Mon 4th Sep 2023

In the third and last incident of the evening, another lone walker was reported significantly overdue from their accommodation at a local pub. His intended route was known which was very helpful. However shortly after Cumbria Police passed this on to us, it was confirmed that he had returned back to his accommodation safe and well, but exhausted from a long and hot day out. This incident was closed. After a very busy time for the Team Leader and others in control room, the effort re-concentrated on callout #131, high up on Scafell Pike. Once this was successfully concluded there was a final additional tasking for a few members of the team to enable ‘carbohydrate replenishment’ for the returning team

 

134. Upper Eskdale - Alert - 18:05 Sat 9th Sep 2023

The team was called yesterday by Cumbria Police about one of a group of eight that had not been seen for a number of hours. The group had walked up to the deep pools near Lingcove Bridge to enjoy the warm weather. However, on the group’s return to their cars, one person was missing. Thankfully as the Team Leader was gathering further information and travelling to meet the group, the missing group member arrived safe and well, and the team was stood down.

 

135. Upper Eskdale - Alert - 19:50 Sun 10th Sep 2023

An alert was swiftly resolved after a call was received from Cumbria Police. A fell runner was overdue, but turned up within 3 minutes of the initial call!

 

136. Beck Head, Great Gable - Alert - 15:56 Wed 13th Sep 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had fallen, sustained leg injuries and was unable to walk. However, as further information on location was obtained, it was confirmed that the incident was in Cockermouth MRT’s area. The respective Team Leaders agreed the handover before the Wasdale team was stood down. We wish the walker a quick recovery, and thanks to Cockermouth MRT for their quick response.

 

137. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 12:04 Thu 21st Sep 2023

After a relatively quiet period, two calls were received from Cumbria Police on Thursday. The first call was about a walker who had fallen and injured his ankle, and appeared to be unable to bear weight on it. The location was close to the summit. The team was called out and made their way up the valley. Due to low numbers, additional help from Duddon and Furness MRT was requested for a potential long stretcher carry. A further call was then received to say that the walker had also hit his head when he fell, but may be able to walk as he had recovered somewhat. This happily turned out to be the case, and the team met up with the walker descending at Hollow Stones. After a medical assessment, the walker then continued all the way to the valley floor. A good outcome for both the walker and the teams.

 

138. Red Gill, Scafell - Full Callout - 16:38 Thu 21st Sep 2023

As the first callout was nearing completion, a second call was received. Multiple 999 calls had been made about shouts and whistles on the flanks of Scafell, heard by walkers on the tourist path of Scafell Pike. Helimed support was requested and they agreed to mobilise quickly to help establish exact location, and directly support if possible. Unfortunately despite several attempts they were thwarted due to unfavourable winds and they were unable to get close enough to make visual contact with the casualty. The landed in the valley, subsequently standing by for a long time in case advanced medical support was required. Coastguard helicopter support was also agreed and deployed from Prestwick with Rescue 199. With different aircraft capability and technology on board they were able to get a visual and confirm exact location. Unfortunately they were also unable to directly help and provide a winch rescue due to the proximity of the crag face. The Rescue 199 crew then helped hugely by lifting three sets of team members to the closest location possible, from which they walked uphill to Red Gill. On arrival the walker was unfortunately located in the gully itself, very close to a 10m drop. As such, a technical rope rescue was required. The casualty was unable to move by himself, but was able to talk and had managed to wrap a survival blanket around him. As a technical and labour intensive rescue was now likely, additional team members from our friends at Duddon and Furness MRT was again requested. R199 again obliged and lifted four of their team members and additional rope and medical supplies from Devoke Water en-route to Wasdale. Other DFMRT members followed in team vehicles. Once Wasdale team members had secured sufficient rope protection in a difficult environment for firm ‘anchors’, they were able to descend to the casualty and make an assessment. Despite taking two significant tumble falls there fortunately was no evidence of any significant life threatening injuries. It was agreed that the walker would attempt to move himself slowly from the gully with support from the rope system and team members. This was able to be done and once off the more technical ground, a more straightforward descent with support was made to get to a location that was suitable for a helicopter winch. Rescue 199 again returned to the scene, winched the walker and transported to hospital for full assessment and treatment. This left the teams to de-rig and walk back down to the valley and then to respective bases. We would like to offer our huge thanks to all the teams involved, and especially the Rescue 199 crew who did everything they possibly could to speed up the effort to locate, enable access and then transport the walker to a hospital setting. Also to the many members of the public who helped and provided information at the start of the callout. We wish the walker a speedy recovery.

 

139. Mickledore, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 01:58 Sun 24th Sep 2023

The team received a call from Cumbria Police early on Sunday morning about two walkers who had taken a wrong turn on an ascent of Scafell Pike and were concerned for their safety in poor weather. The mobile signal was patchy but a location was obtained at Mickledore near the stretcher box. Knowing that the stretcher box has directions on the outside and is a source of shelter with insulating materials stored inside, the decision from the Team Leader and the police was to wait until dawn for a re-evaluation and possible team deployment. Contact was able to be made at first light. The two walkers had indeed sheltered inside the stretcher box, but there was also a report of a leg injury with one of them. As such a team callout was made and again Duddon and Furness MRT supported with additional fell going members for a potentially long stretcher carry. Once on scene, re-warming with additional clothing and food and drink was provided, alongside a medical assessment and some pain relief. This enabled the walker to mobilise sufficiently to walk off the fell under his own steam after some additional rope protection was provided down Mickledore gully for extra confidence and security. The rest of the walk off proceeded well and the walkers were escorted safely down to the valley. Both teams then returned to Wasdale base for some hot refreshments and pizza. Thanks once more to Duddon and Furness MRT. We also hope the walkers are none the worse for their unplanned night on the fell.

 

140. Blea Tarn, Eskdale - Full Callout - 14:29 Wed 27th Sep 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a lone walker who was having difficulty navigating and getting back down into the valley. Unfortunately due to patchy signal in the valley it was not possible to talk to the walker. After some time without further contact, and with a storm approaching it was decided to make a team callout to make use of any remaining daylight and avoid potentially hazardous conditions later in the evening. Nothing was found on the fell, but shortly afterwards the walker was confirmed to be at her accommodation having found her way safely into the valley. A good outcome. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

141. Scafell - Alert - 17:25 Fri 29th Sep 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about two walkers who had lost their intended route down to Eskdale and were seeking assistance. Using a combination of Phonefind, text messaging and phone calls the walkers were directed down to Wasdale valley which was the quickest and safest option before the daylight was lost. Once the walkers were confirmed to be back off the fell and at their accommodation the log was closed. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

142. Black Sail Pass - Limited Callout - 07:56 Fri 6th Oct 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had not been in contact for some time. However, the walker was unlikely to be in the Wasdale area and so it was passed with agreement to Cockermouth MRT, with the last known location being in the Ennerdale valley. As the search progressed through the day, we were re-engaged and asked to search from Wasdale Head to Black Sail Pass. Numerous other teams were also asked to search other routes. Happily the walker was found safe and well relatively quickly, and we were all stood down. A good outcome.

 

143. Upper Eskdale - Alert - 13:21 Sat 7th Oct 2023

Cumbria Police alerted us to a lone walker who was lost having taken a wrong turn in the mist, and was now wet and increasingly cold. He had also then come across another party of three in a similar predicament. The initial coordinates obtained from the call to the police put them in Upper Eskdale. However, as a group they then managed to walk from their location back to the road, from where they took a taxi ride to their intended destination in Wasdale. The Team Leader was monitoring progress and stood down when it was confirmed they were all safely en-route by taxi. This callout also confirms that 2023 is now the busiest year ever for the team. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

144. Piers Gill, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 19:36 Sat 7th Oct 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police about two walkers who had lost their way on the descent from Scafell Pike. Unfortunately they had mis-navigated and become crag fast on steep ground around Straight Gill above Piers Gill. Once the location was determined an immediate callout was made, knowing the severe hazards of the area. Duddon MRT was also asked to stand by in case furter resource was needed. After a muggy ascent via Lingmell nose and Lingmell Col, the advance team got close enough to hear shouts. They were then fortunately able to make their way carefully to the walkers’ position from below. A rope system was established to secure the walkers and then perform controlled lowers back to safe ground. They group then made their way back to Wasdale valley and the team returned to base to reset the vehicles. Unfortunately many items of crag kit totalling several hundred pounds were sacrificed and left in situ to minimise the risks to team members, similar to another crag callout several weeks ago. Edit: Huge thanks for all the donations- we are very thankful

 

145. Scafell Pike - Alert - 21:18 Sun 8th Oct 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about two walkers who were overdue from a walk up Scafell Pike. A family member was concerned for their safety. The Team Leader started to gather information and put the team on standby, however, shortly afterwards the good news was received that the walkers had descended safely and were heading home in their car. They hadn’t been able to make contact earlier due to lack of mobile signal. A good and swift outcome.

 

146. Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 18:18 Tue 10th Oct 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had fallen and hurt his leg on the descent from Scafell Pike. The other two members of the group were becoming increasingly cold and progress was slow. The Team Leader was able to talk to the group and advised to keep descending if they were able, as this maintains body heat and also reduces the time taken for the team to make contact on the fell. Fortunately they were able to do this and managed to descend from Lingmell Col to below the stream crossing. Team Casualty Carers then met them and made an assessment of the injury, before providing support for the group to make their own way for the rest of the descent to Brackenclose.

 

147. Ennerdale - Full Callout - 18:38 Tue 10th Oct 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a someone reporting a lone family member who had become somewhat disoriented in the misty conditions at height and was now cold and wet. The caller was concerned for the walker’s safety. As this was reported by a third party no location details were obtained other than a visual description of a lake and trees beneath her and her intended route of the Wasdale circuit. As the team was already in the valley attending the callout received 20 minutes earlier some team members were diverted to locate the walker’s car, as a starting point; this was found at Wasdale Head. A number of locations were still possible, including Ennerdale, so Cockermouth MRT was asked to send a team in that direction. As other routes were being considered, the good news came through that the walker had been found safe and well in Ennerdale. The walker was then transferred back to our base near Gosforth by Cockermouth MRT and then by ourselves onwards back to her car. Thanks to Cockermouth MRT for their help in resolving this callout quickly.

 

148. Broad Crag Col, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 12:13 Tue 17th Oct 2023

A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had sustained a knee injury on Broad Crag. He was unable to bear any weight. A team member happened to be close by on Scafell Pike and redirected to the reported location. Once on scene he made an assessment and confirmed that he was not able to mobilise at all. Due to the elevation and specific location requiring a tricky carry down the scree from Broad Crag Col, helicopter support was requested. A full team callout was made and also extra support from Duddon and Furness MRT obtained. Unfortunately the weather conditions were not favourable to enable Rescue 199 to land despite a number of attempts and they returned to their base in Scotland. This left the two teams to make their way to the scene and assess, treat and package the walker into the team stretcher. Once the difficult descent from Broad Crag Col to Lingmell Col was negotiated, a routine carry was undertaken back down to Brackenclose. The teams then returned to their respective bases. Thanks to the helicopter crew and to Duddon and Furness for their support once again. We wish the walker well and a quick recovery.

 

149. Hollowstones, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 11:40 Sat 21st Oct 2023

An urgent call was received yesterday from Cumbria Police about a walker who had chest pain and was having difficulty breathing. A heart attack was suspected by the caller. As some members of the team were training in base an advance party was able to be immediately dispatched. Helimed 58 also responded immediately, and were reported to be lifting off within four minutes of the call. The cloud base was fortunately just high enough, and the helicopter crew were able to access a flat area to land above Hollow Stones, leaving only about 200m to walk to the casualty. They assessed and treated him, however, unfortunately his condition still required a stretcher carry to the helicopter. As such, an urgent ascent was still required from Brackenclose by the team. Once they were on scene the walker was carefully transferred to the MR stretcher and the carry was made to the helicopter. He was then flown to hospital to continue his treatment. We wish him all the best for a speedy recovery. Our thanks to to members of the public who helped, and in particular to the A&E nurse who took control of the scene before the helicopter arrived.

 

150. Hollowstones, Scafell Pike - Limited Callout - 13:40 Sat 21st Oct 2023

As some members of the team were arriving close to the scene of callout #149, they witnessed a walker stumble, fall awkwardly, and hit his head on a rock. As there were enough members with the stretcher party by this point some team members diverted to assist. After assessment, some simple analgesia was given and a dressing was applied with some help also from passing and available Helimed crew. Happily the walker was then able to safely walk down to the valley escorted by team members and the rest of his walking group, before onward travel in their own vehicle. We wish the walker a quick recovery, in what was possibly our quickest ever response to an incident!

 

151. Eden Valley - Limited Callout - 06:00 Wed 25th Oct 2023

Penrith MRT requested additional support from the team for a multi-agency and multi-day search for a man who had fallen from a bridge into the River Eden. Soon after completing the search of our allocated area it was confirmed that the body of the man had been recovered by the police. Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends.

 

152. Esk Pike - Alert - 16:45 Wed 1st Nov 2023

We were called by Cumbria Police about a group of three walkers who were benighted in the far reaches of our area. As the party were intending to descend to Langdale and also as Langdale Ambleside MRT have the quicker journey to this destination from their side the job was passed to them with agreement and our thanks. They successfully found the walkers and escorted them back to safety in harsh weather conditions. https://www.adventuresmart.uk/ #BeAdventureSmart and make a good day better. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: 1. Do I have the right GEAR ? 2. Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? 3. Am I confident that I have the KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS for the day?

 

153. Piers Gill, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 14:02 Thu 2nd Nov 2023

The team was called by Cumbria Police about a lone walker who had been separated from her walking group, taken a wrong turn on Lingmell Col, and was concerned for her safety having come down the Piers Gill path. The mobile signal was poor but fortunately the police call handler was able to eventually establish an exact location. A callout was made as a ‘talk off’ from that location with significant hazards is too risky. However, as one team party was preparing to depart from Burnthwaite Farm, the walker appeared before them safe and well. After reuniting her with her walking group at Brackenclose the team returned to base.

 

154. Brown Tongue, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 17:16 Sat 4th Nov 2023

In the first of three calls in quick succession, we received a call about a walker who had fallen, sustained a knee injury and was unable to bear weight. A full callout was made with an advance party setting off quickly with warm clothing and shelter. After assessment, it was mutually decided to attempt a slow walk with team members encouraging and supporting closely. Fortunately the walker was able to complete the descent himself to Brackenclose, from where he was given a lift to his car at Wasdale Head. We wish him well for a swift recovery.

 

155. Broad Crag Col, Scafell Pike - Full Callout - 18:00 Sat 4th Nov 2023

A second call was received from the police, this time about two walkers who were lost in the mist. They were both cold and felt unable to move, with any spare clothing already wet. A location was obtained from the call made to the police. As the team was already mobilised, some of the team members diverted to this higher location, leaving enough team members for a stretcher carry for the first callout should it be needed. On reaching the pair, the team assessed and then escorted them back down to the Wasdale Head Inn, from where family members picked them up.

 

156. Great End - Full Callout - 20:12 Sat 4th Nov 2023

In the third request for our help on Saturday evening, a call was received from Cumbria Police. Walkers who were wild camping in Upper Eskdale had heard shouts for help indicating that someone was lost. Unfortunately the mobile signal was very poor and the informant was not able to be called back for further information, despite many attempts. With a vast area to search and no indication of location it was agreed with the police to review and attempt to contact the informant again in the morning. At 08:45 the following morning, the police received another call saying that different walkers had heard shouts for help from a gully between Great End and Broad Crag. The team was called out quickly, now that a good location was apparent. However, an hour later the informant phoned again to update - he and his son had investigated and managed to find the lost group who were actually a party of three, plus dog. They were all cold but otherwise fit and well. The party was guided back down to the Corridor Route, where team members met up with them. After a quick assessment they then all made their way safely back to the valley floor. Huge thanks to Phil Hartley and his son Jack for helping the group and doing most of the rescue! Jack was the first person to hear the shouts in the morning.

 

157. Beck Head, Great Gable - Full Callout - 14:19 Sun 5th Nov 2023

As incident No.156 was concluding, a further call was received from Cumbria Police regarding a male walker who had fallen and injured his ankle. He was unable to weight bear. As the access to Beck Head is quicker and safer for a stretcher carry from the other side, the Team Leader asked for help from Cockermouth MRT. They were kindly able to help and so the tasking was transferred across. They subsequently successfully completed the rescue via stretcher to Honister. Many thanks to them for their help on what was a very busy weekend for WMRT.

 

158. Seatallan - Alert - 14:48 Tue 7th Nov 2023

A call from Cumbria Police was passed across from Cockermouth MRT as on investigation it was likely to be in our area. A walker had heard shouts, whistles and dogs barking. The Team Leader asked a team member to further investigate whether it could be people and trail hounds on the fell. This was confirmed to be very likely the case when they were met coming off the fell at Nether Beck, and the log closed. A false alarm with good intent.