Lake District Walker Airlifted From Fell After Suffering Severe Cramp.
A walker has been airlifted from a Lake District fell after suffering severe cramp and struggling to continue his descent from Lingmell Col.
Cumbria Police received a call at around 2.40pm on Saturday, September 26, about a man with leg injuries who was unable to make his way down the mountain without assistance. Due to low numbers available from the Wasdale and Duddon Mountain Rescue Teams, assistance was requested from the Coastguard helicopter to help remove the casualty from the fell.
A mountain rescue team member who was already on the hill was quickly able to reach the walker and assess his condition. He was found to be suffering from significant cramp and was struggling to walk. The Coastguard helicopter subsequently transported the man from the mountain back to the valley bottom. He was then advised to seek further medical attention.
The incident came during a busy period for emergency services in the area, with another call received later that evening concerning two people who had become lost while descending Scafell Pike. The second incident was reported at Lingmell Col at around 6.30pm. A PhoneFind link was sent to the walkers, allowing their location to be identified and helping guide them back towards the correct route.
The two people were eventually able to relocate themselves and could see the path ahead, so they decided they were comfortable continuing their descent without assistance. As a result, the mountain rescue team was stood down and was not required to attend the second incident.
The incidents highlight the importance of being properly prepared when walking in the Lake District, where changing conditions, steep terrain and physical difficulties can quickly turn a routine walk into an emergency. Walkers are encouraged to plan routes carefully, check conditions before setting out and carry appropriate equipment, food, water and communication devices when heading into the fells.
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