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2025-09-30-accounts

Wasdale Mountain Rescue

Team

Annual Report 2024/2025

Presented to the Annual General Meeting 17[th] November 2025

Team members and Officials 2024/2025

Presidents and Vice-presidents

President Vice-president Vice-president Vice-president

Richard Longman Dr. Nigel Burton Maurice Pringle Dr. Adrian Simper OBE

Trustees

Chair Duty Team Leader Duty Team Leader and Training Officer Duty Team Leader Duty Team Leader and Water Officer Trustee and Treasurer Trustee Trustee and IT Officer Trustee, Assistant Team Leader, Equipment and Statistics Officer

John Bamforth Ian Davidson John Hryb Penny Kirby MBE Rob Stalker John Noake Mike Smith Paul Barratt

Lee Tunstall

Co-opted officers

Assistant Team Leader Assistant Team Leader Assistant Team Leader Boat Officer Buildings Officer Communications Officer Fundraising Officers Medical Officer Press Officer Recruitment Officer Secretary Vehicles Officer Wellbeing Lead

Chad Dixon Jon Lynch Richard Moss Klem Zafred Hugh Redington Dave Allery Anne Guest and Sam Stalker Lucy Belson Richard Warren OBE Sue Noake Graham Hogg Tony Shambrook Vacant

Full Team Members (40)

Dave Allery Chris Adams John Bamforth Jack Bavister Martin Bentley Alan Blight Ula Bronkowska Andy Cramp Chris Cripps Ian Davidson

Mark Harrison Rob Higham Graham Hogg John Hryb David Kennedy Sam Ketchen Penny Kirby MBE Jon Lynch Basia McMillan Jake Manson

Stuart Rigg Mike Robinson Stuart Rushton Tony Shambrook Dan Shepherd Mike Smith Rob Stalker Luke Tipper Lee Tunstall Richard Warren OBE

Chad Dixon Richard Moss Sarah Wild Ava Grossman John Noake Klemen Zafred Mitchell Graham Sue Noake Phil Hall Gareth Platt

Probationer Team Members (4)

Danny Cummerson Ryan Little Tom McElroy Michael Garstang

Operational Support Team Members (10)

Paul Barratt Ben Campion Dr. Tariq Qureshi Lucy Belson Anne Guest Hugh Redington Tim Brooks Mark Hazell Sam Stalker Jess Bullock

Honorary Life Team Members (28)

Dave Barras Keith Hudson Janice Reynolds Bob Bennett Richard Longman Brian Smith Howard Christie Joe Moody Colin Smith Dave Fryer Will Mullineux Gordon Starkie Jenny Green Guy Newbold Keith Thompson Roger Green Ken Owens Nick West Karen Greene Bill Pattison MBE Dave Willey Mike Greene MBE Dave Polhill Royanne Wilding Pete Holburt Maurice Pringle Martin Young Carol Holmes

Agenda

  1. Opening remarks from the Chair

  2. Acceptance of the minutes of the 2024 Annual General Meeting held on 18th November 2024

  3. Election of Trustees being:

  4. Chair

  5. Up to 4 Duty Team Leaders

  6. Up to 9 trustees, including Chair and Duty Team Leaders

The following nominations for trustees were received by the deadline:

Position Candidate Proposer Seconder
Chair Mike Smith Richard Moss Alan Blight
DutyTeam Leader Ian Davidson Richard Warren Stuart Rushton
DutyTeam Leader PennyKirby Mike Robinson Graham Hogg
DutyTeam Leader Rob Stalker Rob Higham Mike Robinson
DutyTeam Leader Lee Tunstall John Bamforth Richard Warren
CharityTrustee John Bamforth Graham Hogg Rob Stalker
CharityTrustee Paul Barratt Richard Warren Lee Tunstall
CharityTrustee AndyCramp Ian Davidson Alan Blight
CharityTrustee Jon Lynch Lee Tunstall Dave Allery
CharityTrustee John Noake Mark Harrison Martin Bentley

For the role of Assistant Team Leader there are up to four positions available for which four team members have been nominated:

whichfourteam members have been nominated:
Position Candidate DTL supporter 1
 DTL supporter 2
Assistant Team Leader Chad Dixon PennyKirby
 Rob Stalker
Assistant Team Leader Rob Higham Rob Stalker
 Ian Davidson
Assistant Team Leader Jon Lynch Ian Davidson
 Rob Stalker
Assistant Team Leader Klemen Zafred Ian Davidson
 Rob Stalker

There will be no election for the position of Assistant Team Leader. Section 8.4 of the byelaws will be followed, and the candidates will be presented to the AGM for challenge and/or confirmation by the membership.

  1. Presentation of the 2025 Annual Reports by Officers including the 2024/25 Accounts

  2. Motions for debate and proposed constitutional change

  3. Appointment of Auditors (with a proposal to retain Robinson & Co)

  4. Any Other Business

Chair’s Report

Welcome to the 2025 annual report for Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team. More detail is in the officer reports later but this introduction highlights some of the great efforts in another outstanding year for the team.

Like the past few years, we have been one of the busiest teams in the Lake District this year in terms of numbers of callouts including alerts. At the end of October, in the Lake District callouts are about 4% up on 2024 but in our patch, we are about 9% down compared to last year. As ever, the team has responded splendidly, and thanks must go to our Duty Team Leaders and Assistant Team Leaders for managing the calls often at unsociable times, and to all members for attending callouts when they can.

In addition to callouts, we have still been training hard but have for the second year in succession we recognised that that the summer busy season takes its toll with depleted resources as members go on holiday, and halted training completely through July and August, whilst still doing successful crag training weekend in North Wales in Autumn to augment the popular Winter training weekend in Scotland. Thanks must go to the training officer and all those who have organised our training activities including training with other teams, other agencies and using other volunteers to give us an ever wider-ranging field of knowledge.

Just under a third of our callouts have included a medical response this year, which is comparable with previous years and whilst many have been traditionally frequent lower limb injuries, some have been complex in nature and in very difficult conditions. The medical training that we receive is truly magnificent and we have many people within and outside of the team to thank for their tireless contribution to ensuring that we have the medical skills when it matters.

This year’s cohort of probationers is nearing the end of their training, some of the previous year’s cohort have become full members and next year’s cohort are about to undergo their hill test after a rigorous application and selection process. Thanks must go to all those involved in recruiting, interviewing, and assessing our candidates.

On the vehicle front, we have used Mobile 4 for just over a year now and it has performed superbly as our primary first response vehicle. This year we have revisited our vehicle strategy, which will see a new vehicle Mobile 5 come into service in the Spring 2026, to allow us to have two pairs of response and backup vehicles whilst still having Mobile 2 for other duties like towing the boat. We must recognise the positive impact of Mid Copeland GDF Community Partnership for the award of grants to upgrade Mobile 1 to the standard of Mobile 4, and to help with the purchase of Mobile 5: our thanks go to them and to our vehicles officer and others for their efforts in ensuring that our fleet remains ready to go.

Equipment continues to develop and the titanium stretcher with its purpose-designed wheel has been in use for about two years now and helped share the load up the hill amongst more folks. There are still issues to iron out over time and we are still investigating tweaks to the current setup. There are many items of equipment required for the team to do its job, and several members have assisted the equipment officers over the year to check existing equipment, specify new equipment, as well as logging callouts and training sessions. Thanks to our equipment officers and all those who have helped including the recording of everything on our D4H software system.

The team’s water and boat capability is close to the ideal number for the team and thanks must go to the water officer and boat officer, and congratulations those who have qualified as technicians, advanced technicians, instructors, and boat drivers.

Communications on the hill is important, and our digital radios continue to evolve with more repeater stations both in vehicles and on land, assisted by satellite phones and the Starlink capability at Wasdale Head. The new incident briefing application is proving very useful and is yet another area where this team is developing best practice. Thanks must go to the IT and communications team who work quietly behind the scenes making sure our vital systems work.

We have been in our base now for about 7 years and it is still evolving over time. Despite the best efforts of our buildings officer and others, our lowering platform remains has yet to be installed but we are still hopeful for the installation of in the next year, to allow us to practice techniques with good visibility in a safe environment. With the addition of Mobile 5 we are considering the conversion of the lean-to area to a purpose-built garage. Thanks to the buildings officer and all who have cut the grass, tidied up, stayed in for the alarm service or other maintenance jobs and helped keep our base an exemplar.

We have managed to earn more than we have spent, and we are fortunate to have a healthy bank account with at least three years’ worth of operating expenditure as reserves in addition to earmarked reserves for future vehicle replacement. The big event at Wasdale Head in May was a great success and thanks must go to our fundraising team and others who have helped to bring in the much-needed funds: this includes organising attending functions and events throughout the year to gain and receive these funds. Thanks also to those involved in our team’s financial governance, including our independent examiners, Robinson & Co.

Following the success of Lake District Rescue series 1 that aired in 2024 for Channel 4, we have been discussing a follow up which may take the form of a second series or more likely will be a series of video shorts to support the various forms of media and social media that we use, funded by external sponsors. We recognise that we have many stakeholders and the depth of interest out there for the service that we provide means a considerable workload for those dealing with the media, managing public visits to the base, and providing a constant flow of social media content across several platforms. Thanks to those involved with all these outward communications which display the great work that this team does on a 24/7/365 basis, to a wide audience, increasing awareness and helping to bring in the funding and goodwill that the team needs to continue.

Congratulations go to Richard Warren for his OBE awarded this year, which is a fabulous achievement and a culmination of over 40 years of mountain rescue including significant service with LDSAMRA. In terms of long service awards this year, well done also to Phil Hall for his 10 years’ service.

This team is now larger in its operation than many small businesses and as a charity and an emergency service too, governance is important. For example, we already have a wellestablished policy on safeguarding, but we are about to absorb an increased level of governance with DBS checks, in line with the standards of Scotland and the guidance from our national body. As another example, the team has embraced wellbeing principles and as well as the behind-thescenes conversations with every member to check on their individual wellbeing, we endeavour to organise everything as best we can to ensure that the interests of the casualty are looked after whilst minimising the impact on team members. Having the capability of a group of trustees who meet monthly to discuss issues like these in a constructive and professional manner has been very important. This all takes a huge amount of time and effort, and I would like to thank my fellow trustees for their contribution over the last year.

I would like to thank our elected and co-opted officers who have worked tirelessly to maintain our effectiveness as a team during another very busy year of rescues and training, as well as all those who have contributed in any way. Finally, thanks must also go to families and friends. They often must pick up the pieces on callouts, and this help is invaluable: please pass on our thanks.

This will be my last report as chair after 12 years or so. When someone asked me recently about the most memorable moment from that time, I had to say it was the opening of the base in 2018, for several reasons. Not only was the building an award-worthy design but also, it was a culmination of much fundraising and hard work and has been truly transformational to the way we operate. In addition, it gives us a place to train, to socialise and still is exceptional in the mountain rescue world that we participate in.

So, thanks to all who have helped: It has been an absolute privilege, and my best wishes go to my successor.

John Bamforth

Chair

Secretary’s Report

2025 has been a mostly straightforward year in secretarial terms, all meetings continue to be well attended, and the trustee meetings have provided interesting discussions, presentations and proposals. It has been good to see team members come along to trustee meetings throughout the year.

The number of full team members stands at 40, which is an increase of 3 from 2024. Once again, the recruitment programme has yielded another batch of aspiring mountain rescuers and following the upcoming hill assessment, we anticipate a further probationary membership to begin in January 2026. This year’s probationary membership has prospered in the team, and we look forward to signing off 4 new full team members shortly. Our thanks go to Tom Langan, who committed to his probationary year with enthusiasm, only to be cut short by family and work commitments. We look forward to seeing Tom again in a future year. Many thanks to Sue and all those who facilitate our recruitment programme.

Thanks go to John for keeping the website up to date and to our social media team. Our following and engagement on all channels continues to increase with our Facebook and Instagram pages now boasting 38,000 and 7,200 followers respectively.

I’d like to give my personal thanks to John as he steps down as our Chair this year – his continued friendship and wise counsel have helped me immensely.

Graham Hogg

Secretary

Duty Team Leader’s Report

On behalf of the leadership team, we are pleased to say it has been a year of dedication, growth, and resilience from everybody involved and we are immensely proud of what the team has achieved.

At the time of writing, the team has responded to 146 callouts , covering a wide range of incidents from minor injuries and lost walkers to complex rescues in remote and hazardous terrain. Each callout has highlighted the professionalism, skill, and compassion of our team members, who continue to give their time selflessly to help those in need.

Training remains a key part of our operational readiness. Regular sessions have covered essential skills including rope rescue, casualty care, navigation, searching and night operations. We’ve also strengthened collaboration with neighbouring teams and emergency services through joint exercises, ensuring we are well-prepared for multi-agency responses. Our Water Rescue capability has been further developed, and we are mindful of the increasing risks posed by increased recreational use of Wast water.

We were pleased to welcome five new members to the team this year. Their enthusiasm and commitment have been a real asset, and they’ve integrated well thanks to the support of our mentoring programme and the wider team. It’s encouraging to see fresh energy and new skills contributing to our collective strength.

At the same time, we also said farewell to several valued team members who stepped down this year. We are incredibly grateful for the time, dedication, and expertise they brought to the team during their service. Their contributions have left a lasting impact, and we wish them all the very best in their future endeavours.

Thanks to generous donations and successful fundraising efforts, we’ve been able to invest in vital equipment upgrades. New medical kit, radios, and personal protective gear have enhanced both our effectiveness and the safety of our volunteers. We’re also continuing to explore improvements to our base, and we have a new vehicle on order to be delivered in 2026 to support future operations.

Community engagement remains a big priority. Through talks, events, and social media, we’ve worked to promote mountain safety and raise awareness of the team’s work. The support we receive from the public — both financial and moral — is deeply appreciated and vital to our continued success.

Looking ahead, we recognise the challenges posed by increasing visitor numbers, evolving risks, and the need to support volunteer wellbeing. As the team’s leaders, we are committed to ensuring the team remains well-equipped, well-trained, and well-supported to meet these demands.

We want to thank every member of Wasdale MRT, our families, supporters, and partner agencies. Your dedication, teamwork, and spirit are what make this team exceptional. It is a privilege to lead such a committed group of individuals, and we look forward to continuing this vital work together.

A final word of thanks to John Hryb who steps down from the Duty Team Leader role at this year’s AGM. Thank you for your years of leadership and commitment.

Stay safe and thank you.

Ian Davidson John Hryb Penny Kirby MBE Rob Stalker

Team Leaders

Penny, John, Rob, and Ian

Treasurer’s Report

The accounts for the year to 30 September 2025 are being finalised and thanks must go to Emma Woodend of Robinson & Co. for preparing them.

Overview

Firstly, thanks to Sue Noake for her assistance in accounting for transactions. Thanks also to the fundraising team of Anne Guest and Sam Stalker plus others for their efforts in bringing valuable funds in.

These results are draft and are subject to independent examination. The accounts for the 12 months to 30 September 2025 show a profit of £58.7k (2024 - £34.3k), being £183.6k (2024 - £186.1k) of income less direct expenses of £55.9k (2024 - £65.1k) and overheads of £69.0k (2024 - £61.6k).

Income

Of the £108.4k donations received in the year, significant single donation (>£1k) banking amounts are: -

There was a legacy bequest from S Clipsham of £31.2k plus £24.0k of grants received from MidCopeland GDF Community Fund, £12.4k of interest and £7.6k of other income.

Direct Expenses

Of the £55.9k direct expenses, £10.2k (2024 - £16.5k) relates to team member equipment, £24.1k (2024 - £37.9k) to team equipment, £18.8k (2024 - £9.0k) to training and £2.8k (2024 - £1.7k) to other expenses.

Team member equipment costs comprise: - member equipment costs comprise: -
• Member clothing £4.1k
• Member equipment £1.7k
• Member personal allowances £4.4k
£10.2k
Team equipment costs comprise: -
• Medical equipment £10.0k
• Communications kit £5.1k
• Crag £5.4k
• Other £3.6k
£24.1k
Training costs comprise: -
• Crag training – Wales £3.8k
• Medical £3.8k
• Winter training - Scotland £1.9k
• Driver £3.1k

• Other £6.2k £18.8k

Overheads

These costs comprise: -

Financial Position

As at 30 September 2025 we: -

Mid-Copeland GDF Community Fund

LDSAMRA Funding

The mechanism for distribution of funds from the regional body LDSAMRA changed earlier this year from an equal sharing arrangement (for those teams who chose to take it, which WMRT did) to one where teams apply for specific capital and operating expenditure. This approach has been agreed by all the region’s teams as fair, transparent and targeting funds where they are most needed in the region. The £5.0k that was received in January related to the old mechanism. There are two opportunities each calendar year to apply for funds from the region and WMRT did not apply in March or in September but may apply in future years.

Summary

We have more than covered our operational expenditure in the year. The team is fortunate to have its current capital expenditure requirements covered by the Mid-Copeland GDF Community Fund and can apply to the region if a shortfall arises in future.

John Noake Treasurer

The draft accounts for the year to 30 September 2025 are as follows: -

Date.. 1511112025 Tlme.. 12..25..45 Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team Balance Sheet Page: Froni: Nonth I, (ktokr 2U24 Month 12, September 2025 Cl)art of Accouiiis.. twaulr Layout of Acc￿nts Perlod Year to Date Flxed Asgets Prorerty EqLJiprnent ar￿ FLYtures veh￿￿5 676.170.rJt) 113.486.41 34.862.1)11 4,852.41 683.41 824.5L8.41 Curreiit Assets Dewsits arwj Cash nk Attount VAT ￿a￿"lity 58,1VJ9.15 n.n 1,676.74 616.O29.28 4.523.14 27.377.29 59.775.89 647.929.71 Current Liabilities Creditc*s'. sP￿rt Term nk Accounr 1,485.16 242.66 In.639.55 1,727.82 58,L148.U7 58,731.48 111,639.55 637,2911.16 1,461,8()8.57 Current Assets less Ciirrent Liabilities.. Total Assets less Curreiit Llabllltles.. Loi)g Terni Liabilitie5 n.nn Total Assets ￿sS Total Llabllttles: 58,731.48 1,461,S()8.57 Capltal & Reser¥es Fut￿5 P & L kcount pre￿(￿15 YearAdj 1.3f16,538.32 58,731.48 96,538.77 58,731.48 58,731.48 1.461,W8.57

Medical Officer’s Report

Qualification Qualification Qualification Qualification % members trained % members trained
Remote Rescue Medical Technician 49
Basic Life Support 100
Stopthe Bleed(accredited bythe Royal College of Surgeons) 66
Outdoor First Aid 24
Home Office Standards 100
4
2
1
3
4
1
Incident breakdown
Ankle 14 Foot/hand 4
Limb 8 Spinal 2
Chest 2 Shoulder 1
Facial 2 Hypothermic 3
Head 12 Dizzy/confused 4
Unwell 3 Fatality 1

A busy year for all those delivering care on the hill. Throughout 2025 it has been mainly calls to trauma events and only a few medical conditions.

Spring brought newly qualified doctors to the base to learn about the challenges of delivering medicine on the hill. They enjoyed learning about drones, the complexities of managing a rescue and made friends with Jess (our search dog). This was followed by scenarios in the afternoon.

Scenarios for the new doctors

WMRT was delighted to host an instructor day for MREW, teams came from all over England & Wales. Kate Denning (Consultant Medical Educationalist), Dr Alistair Morris (MD for MREW) and Dr Tariq Qureshi led the weekend. Participants developed their RRMT teaching techniques 9 of our team took part.

Dr Alistair Morris

In July Richard Moss and Ian Davidson were involved in giving an excellent presentation to 50 16yr olds from all over the country interested in studying medicine. This was a summer school for those from a widening participation background. Organised by Sunderland & ULAN universities and funded by the medical school council. It was a privilege to be involved.

Future doctors!

WMRT were very much in evidence at the MREW medical conference in Stourbridge, both teaching and participating. Tariq gave the conference talk on Heat Illness and Richard Moss gave the after-dinner talk ‘Confessions of a casualty carer’ which was very well received.

MREW Medical Conference; Richard Moss in full flow with Tariq watching on

The Emergency Services Show (ESS) was held at the NEC and again Wasdale was represented. It was interesting to see the latest drones, technology, swift water kit and medical devices. It was an opportunity to network and bring back information to the team, in particular some ways we can improve.

A thanks to all the GPs who participated in ‘Doctors in the house’ training, the paramedics and nurses, other doctors, Seascale Pharmacy and Allisons Chemist for providing vaccines and jabs, a new crew of Wasdale ‘luvvies’ who take time out to act as casualties, all the RRMTS, team members and of course our own Dr Tariq Qureshi for providing another RRMT course this year. We look forward to 2026.

Ten second triage practice with ‘actors’

Lucy Belson Medical Officer

Fundraising Officer’s Report

Events Attended by WMRT

Date Event Type of Event Location Money Banked
7thDec 2024 Flag Day Collection buckets Egremont £519.85
21stDec 2024 Flag Day Collection buckets Whitehaven £887.93
10thMay 2025 Come to the Rescue event Open morning at base.
Afternoon/evening event
at Wasdale Head		 Base & Wasdale
Head		 £7,331.85
14thJune 2025 Drigg Gala WMRT Merchandise Stall
& Vehicle		 Drigg £99.14
13thJuly 2025 Rugby Fundraiser Donations Workington RLFC £10,000
15thAug 2025 Farmers Market Cake Sale & Collection
buckets		 Egremont £605.50
16thAug 2025 Gosforth Show WMRT Merchandise Stall
& Vehicle		 Gosforth £351.46
30thAug 2025 Harbourfest WMRT Merchandise Stall
& Vehicle		 Whitehaven £312
27thSept 2025 Eskdale Show WMRT Merchandise Stall
& Vehicle		 Eskdale £224.24
6thOct 2025 Rotary Club Presentation Workington £500
11thOct 2025 Wasdale Show WMRT Merchandise Stall
& Vehicle		 Wasdale £661.85
1stNov 2025 WMRT Fundraiser Fundraising Event The Strands £714
TOTAL RAISED £22,207.82

Collection Boxes

We regularly receive collection boxes from various locations, and we are extremely grateful to those team members who pick them up and often count the money for us. All money raised via collection boxes is deposited directly into the Cumberland Building Society Account. The Treasurer will have the details for the amount deposited.

There are spare collection boxes in the fundraising cupboard at base so please feel free to take one if you know of somewhere that needs a collection box, or a replacement for a full collection box.

It is a great help if team members can continue to collect the collection boxes while out and about. If there are no replacement boxes available in the fundraising cupboard, then please let a member of the fundraising team know and they can be restocked.

PayPal Account

All orders for merchandise from the website go straight to the PayPal account. There are also regular payments from the PayPal Giving Fund via our social media pages.

Date Merchandise PayPal Giving Fund **Outgoings **
Nov-24 £27.78 £8.89
Dec-24 £24.98 £81.76
Jan-25 £65.78 £263.29
Feb-25 £88.14 £12.78 £903.19
Mar-25 £35.77
Apr-25 £24.98 £279.11
May-25 £183.09 £48.69
Jun-25 £13.55 £6.44 £45
Jul-25 £91.45
Aug-25 £1.77 £910.07
Sep-25 £42.93 £54.73
Oct-25 £41.29
TOTALS £641.51 £1,665.76 £948.19
Current balance in the PayPal account £18,040.28

Donations

Donations have been received from various casualties and their families throughout the year. Donations are paid into the Cumberland Building Society Account, of which the Treasurer has more details.

Conclusion

There has been a significant increase in fundraising events this year and as such, our takings have gone up. Once again, we would like to thank a handful of people who regularly attend the events and help with the fundraising collection boxes. We couldn’t do it without you!

As many of you already know, we will both be standing down from the fundraising officer role this year. We have been in position for the last few years and would like to thank all those who have helped and supported us throughout this time. We’ve had a great time attending all the fundraising events, getting to know team members, and engaging with the local community. We won’t be disappearing completely as we will both still be supporting fundraising events and the fundraising team going forward.

Thank you all, it’s been a pleasure!

Anne Guest and Sam Stalker

Fundraising Officers

Vehicle Officer’s Report

A huge thank you to Jake for his outstanding work over the past few years as Vehicle Officer. Jake has left the team’s vehicles in excellent condition, and I am honoured to take on the role. Special thanks also to Lucy, Mike and Dave who have been an invaluable support to me this year with logistics and maintenance, and to all who have contributed reporting issues and suggesting improvements.

We currently operate with four vehicles which have performed reliably throughout a busy operational year:

Mobile 1 , a Toyota Hilux, is 12 years old with a total mileage of 23,403. It has done 1,978 miles this year, significantly more than the year before (874 in 2024). It’s in good condition but could benefit from some refurbishment work in 2026 to bring it closer to the standard of Mobile 4.

Mobile 2 , a Land Rover Defender, is now 16 years old with a total mileage of 30,385. It has done 1,067 miles this year (1,287 in 2024). It is in great shape considering its age and is the team’s primary vehicle for boat deployments. Also, an invaluable PR asset and used in events, we should look to keep it operational as long as possible while having contingencies in place when it can’t be relied on.

Mobile 3 , a Ford Tourneo Custom, is ten years old with a total mileage of 28,686. It has done 2,793 miles this year. (3,642 in 2024). It has the capacity to transport nine people and is widely used for callouts, training and events. There have been intermittent problems with reliability in 2024 (although not impacting callouts), specifically with the electrical system. It will remain operational in the medium-term.

Mobile 4 , a 2023 Toyota Hilux has a total mileage of 6,141. It has done 1,832 miles this year (2,924 miles in 2024). It is the Team’s most functional all-round vehicle and the primary response vehicle on a call-out.

All the vehicles are taxed and insured and have a MoT where applicable. They undergo regular maintenance checks at Riverside Garage, Holmrook.

In 2026, as well as the refurbishment work planned on Mobile 1, we have purchased a Mercedes Sprinter, Mobile 5 , with delivery expected in the first half of 2026. This vehicle will be converted to our specific requirements, and its primary purpose will be as a ‘people carrier’. However, it will also improve operational effectiveness in drone and swift water deployments and can function as a forward control point. It is a serious investment by the Trustees into the Teams future, and a huge thanks to those who have helped with the project: Rob Stalker, Lee Tunstall, Richard Warren and Jake Manson.

Tony Shambrook

Vehicles Officer

Water and Boat Officer’s Report

Over the past year, the team has continued to maintain and develop its Swiftwater Rescue capability. Despite regional discussions around scaling back water operations due to cost and callout pressures, Wasdale remains committed. We’ve invested in training and equipment and looked at new Search and Rescue Technology for Wast water.

Our qualification levels have remained stable, with 11 Swiftwater Rescue Technicians currently active and 6 of those operating at Advanced level. We’ve increased our instructor numbers to two, however, we still have a gap in technicians trained for flooded vehicle rescues, which remains a priority for 2026.

Training highlights include a successful joint session with Duddon MRT in October and participation in the National Flood Rescue Exercise at Lake Windermere in February. This provided valuable experience in national deployment procedures and inter-agency coordination. Looking ahead, Wasdale will host a Swiftwater Technician course this winter, with dates to be confirmed shortly. This will support our goal of increasing technician numbers and strengthening operational resilience.

Our existing equipment remains fit for purpose and is regularly inspected by the equipment team. Regular checks and maintenance ensure our water rescue kit is ready to deploy 24/7 365 Thanks to all team members for their continued commitment to water rescue operations. Any questions or suggestions are always welcome.

Good Nearlythere Needs work
Qualification Current number Ideal
number		 Changes from last month
Swiftwater rescue technicians 11 18 N/A
Advanced level technicians 6 8 N/A
Technicians trained in rescues from a
flooded vehicle		 0 10 N/A
Swiftwater instructor 2 1 1
Management of water and flood
incidents (Mod 5)		 1 1 N/A
DEFRA Team Commander 3 3 N/A

The team boat has been deployed on callouts 3 times since the last AGM. Two of these incidents were to aid people and dogs stuck on the screes and the third one was for people reported in trouble in the water. Luckily that resolved itself quickly and the team was instead diverted to retrieve the missing equipment.

Towards the end of the year the team also sent additional team members to the RYA Level 2 Powerboat handling courses at Derwentwater marina. They all passed their assessments, so the team now has 6 additional drivers available, adding resilience to our response capabilities – 14 boat drivers in total.

In terms of training, there were 4 sessions spread throughout the year to provide time on the lake and practice slick deployment and retrieval. One of those sessions was extended to a trainee water search dog and her handler for a familiarisation session on our boat. We are hoping to not need their assistance in the future, but training together was both interesting and good for relationship building.

One of the more time consuming and interesting developments of the year was the boat trailer upgrade. The original trailer has developed a serious defect, which was fixed temporarily in the first instance but triggered a replacement project. A decision was made to replace it with a more robust option with excess capacity for peace of mind. Some operational improvements were also built into the new design – side steps to get onto the boat, fixed uprights for easier docking and permanents lights that don’t require disconnecting and removing before deployment. Our tired old trailer was left with the suppliers, who donated it to the Whitehaven sea cadets for use around the seafront.

We thank West Coast Trailers for their expert support, prioritisation of our work and providing some of the upgrades free of charge. Financing of the new trailer was enabled by our long-time supporters, the family of Chris Brown who set up a very successful fundraising event for the team. We thank them for their continued support and help.

Going forward, the team has started a review of our lake rescue capabilities and needs. As part of that work, we are looking at the current equipment and new developments in the market to enhance our response options. In parallel, we will continue to improve our current setup and team familiarity to ensure slick and safe deployments.

Boat deployment on Wast water

Rob Stalker Klem Zafred Water Officer Boat Officer

Building Officer’s Report

The building has generally been in a good state of repairs but there are some continuing issues.

Annual inspections and services to the following systems have taken place:

The standby generator test is to be scheduled before the end of the year.

There is a routine for regular emergency light and fire alarm tests which will continue. Some adhoc callouts were required to attend to issues with the garage doors.

The ground source heat pump system has been problematic with a loss of pressure in the brine circuit. This is being monitored with the brine being regularly topped up. Specialists have been contacted for support. If the fault is not found and rectified, a contingency plan of an alternative heating source is to be considered.

United Utilities fitted a new water meter during the year.

Additional lead flashing has been installed to the lower sections of both roof lights in an effort to stop the water ingress. Unfortunately, a further leak appeared in the last few weeks and the contractor who effected the repair has committed to return and review what else must be done.

The Lowering Platform project has stalled, and no progress has been achieved in getting the platform delivered to base. I will contact Altrad again to see if delivery can be arranged. If this is successful, we will need to organise installation.

Thank you also to the team members who carry out other maintenance tasks around the base. Their support has been invaluable.

Ongoing issues/projects:

Hugh Redington

Building Officer

Communication Officer’s Report

The underlying theme over the last year for the comms team has been to carry out maintenance and incremental changes to our existing communications systems to improve performance and reliability.

The primary internet connection for base was upgraded to Starlink in November last year, giving us 10 times more bandwidth and a significant decrease in lost messages.

In January we suffered a failure of the radio repeater at Wasdale Head, which is very important link for most of our callouts. The cause was diagnosed as the backup battery terminal corroding and fracturing.

In June, we were gifted the Starlink connection at Wasdale Head by The Government DSIT after a successful 2-year trial, so we took on the monthly subscription and the control of it. As we share our radio repeater network with all the other teams in The Lakes, work that they have carried out has also improved our radio coverage and performance on the edges of our operating area, particularly in the Upper Esk, thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT.

We routinely wind down our base radio mast for protection when high winds are forecast. On one occasion the aerial feeder cover was scraped allowing water ingress which seeped all the way to the radio inside the building and degrading radio performance. A huge team effort to replace the feeders had to overcome quite a few challenges which resulted in a return to much more consistent radio performance.

A recent implementation of an additional base radio in the Gear Up room allows team members to maintain operational awareness while preparing for deployment.

A couple of instances of losing track of some of the satellite radios has resulted in the successful use of Apple Air tags and procedural team discipline of logging them in and out. Our link between our radios and our secure internet channel called Zello has been gradually improved by several changes during the year. It now seems to be at the level of reliability that we need. And finally, Jon has been using AI to significantly improve the team dashboard, even whilst riding in the team vehicle on the way to a call out!

Thanks to everyone who’s helped with comms issues and initiatives during the year, particularly Jon, Rob, Gareth and Hugh.

So, what are the future plans? Next up is equipping Mobile 5 with communications capability to allow it to operate as a mobile Base. We’ve taken up the offer of a free Starlink mini to test its capabilities and potential benefits, and we’re keeping an eye on the impact of Amazon’s project Kuiper satellite internet service starting up to see how we may be able to use that to improve our capabilities further.

Dave Allery

Communications Officer

Equipment Officer’s Report

I’ve now completed my second full year in post. The role continues to involve managing the team’s crag equipment, stretchers, rope rescue kit, and inspection workflows — alongside purchasing, supplier liaison, and kit room oversight.

Leads:

Equipment Developments

Rope & Rescue Kit

Clothing

External Engagement & Partnerships

Systems & Acknowledgements

I’m grateful for the team’s ongoing support and collaboration. The role continues to evolve, and I look forward to further improvements in 2026.

Lee Tunstall

Equipment Officer

Information Technology Officer’s Report

This annual report provides an overview of the key activities, improvements, and support initiatives undertaken by the IT department over the past year. The focus areas include hardware upgrades, SharePoint organisation and user support, cybersecurity awareness, external collaboration, and maintaining readiness to assist with training and operational needs. ….. No AI Chatbots were harmed during the production of this report

1. Hardware Upgrades

Significant investment was made in upgrading core hardware infrastructure. The following enhancements were completed:

These upgrades have resulted in faster workflows, fewer hardware-related disruptions, and enhanced user satisfaction.

2. SharePoint Organisation and User Support

This year, the IT team undertook a comprehensive review and reorganisation of our SharePoint environment. Key achievements include:

These efforts have improved overall efficiency and collaboration across teams, while maintaining strong information governance.

3. Cybersecurity Awareness and Risk Mitigation

Recognising the increasing importance of cybersecurity, the IT Officer has launched several initiatives aimed at reducing organisational risk:

These strategies will contribute to a measurable reduction in security incidents and heightened awareness of digital risks.

4. External Collaboration for IT Best Practices

To ensure our IT operations align with current industry standards, the IT Officer has put in place plans to engage in ongoing collaboration with external partners:

These partnerships will enable us to adopt best practices, stay abreast of emerging trends, and continuously improve our IT Capabilities.

5. Continuous Readiness: Training and Operational Support

Throughout the year, the IT Officer maintained a proactive approach in meeting IT operational needs:

The past year has seen considerable progress across all key areas of IT for the Team I hope we have through targeted investments in hardware, a focus on secure and efficient digital collaboration, robust cybersecurity measures, productive external partnerships, and ongoing support and training, the IT department has hopefully built a basis to build on in the future.

Paul Barratt

IT Officer

Press Officer’s Report

Although 2025 has not seen as many callouts compared to the previous two years, we remain one of the busiest teams across the Lake District. Responding to some extremely challenging and lengthy rescues, means a lot of press interest. Maintaining strong relationships with the media, encouraging responsible behaviors and being non-judgmental has always been our approach and it seems to work reasonably well. It allows us to get our own messaging across whether it is fundraising, recruitment, or safety messaging to reduce those avoidable lost and missing or just a big thanks to our community.

We are acutely aware that the consistently high numbers of avoidable callouts are our greatest concern. Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England; it is therefore a honeypot destination for both the experienced and inexperienced and generates over 50% of our callouts. 60% of these can be categorised as lost, missing or overdue. Reducing the truly avoidable callouts to a manageable level must be a priority to improve the balance of family, work and team. There would appear to be no silver bullet solution, but it will not stop us trying. When the clocks went back, 26 October 2025, having already sent out our regular guidance messages to the public to set off earlier and heed weather warnings, were we surprised that we had a double stretcher carry that night extending to nearly12 hours? Not really, it is what it is.

So, a big thank you to everyone who has appeared or contributed to TV, radio and news interviews throughout the year. You present our work and issues well and add operational realism to interviews over and above to that of any press officer. Not an easy task for anyone but always well executed so thank you. Also, big thanks to all team members who have helped with the photographs, the videos, the social media posts and indeed in the opportunities we get for reconstructions. Special thanks to our social media colleagues who have a devil of a job keeping up with the flood of incidents and to Chad who continues to share the media workload as assistant press officer with his engaging style. All this support continues to make the job of a press officer so much easier.

Richard Warren OBE

Press Officer

Recruitment and Probationer Officer’s Report

The recruitment process for 2025 commenced in late summer 2024 with applications being received for a January 2025 start. Of these, nine were invited for an interview. The next stage was the final hill walk. This was held over the weekend of 23[rd] & 24[th] November. Five of the nine were invited to start a probationary year in January 2025. My thanks go to all those team members who assisted in the selection process.

After attending base for the first three months, they were out on their first rescue early in April. All 5 have been allocated a mentor to help them learn the way our team works. The mentors provide one-to-one contact with the newcomers to encourage and guide. After giving many hours of training and rescues one of the five has had to withdraw from the team because of family commitments conflicting with his wish to support the team.

March and April 2025 saw the update of the competencies that are expected of team members, many thanks to Rob Stalker for checking and revising the layout of the form. The mentors are now enabling them to complete these in their introductory year, prior to being accepted as full team members in Jan 2026.

During the spring of 2025, seven people contacted the team enquiring about volunteering with us. Some came to talk to us on the Open Day at Base in May 2025. Applications were sent out to all of them, resulting in five returned by July 31[st] .

By the time of the AGM, all will have been interviewed. This will be followed by a day out on the hill, which has been arranged for Nov 22[nd] /23[rd.] The purpose of this is to check if they have the basic skills to keep themselves safe on the fells, i.e. the ability and confidence to move on steep ground, and basic navigation.

Many thanks to all the team members who have helped me over the past year.

Sue Noake

Recruitment Officer

Training Officer’s Report

This last year has again seen an enormous variety of training. As with previous years, we had no formal training sessions in July and August but did have a search management session. Some of the items below will be covered fully in other reports.

We have had several crag practices, building up from the basics to more advanced techniques, and incorporating 2 sessions with Duddon and Furness MR team. It is hoped to organise a bespoke course for RROI candidates at Lyon.

There have been 2 weekends away, one in Scotland, focussing on winter skills, and the other in Wales, with ropework, scrambling and walking on offer. There has been a strong focus on search field skills and search management, providing a solid foundation for newer search managers. We have as usual, had a comprehensive programme of medical training, and this year’s training for RRMT’s is currently underway.

There has also been some swift water training and water safety awareness training. We are very fortunate to now have 2 instructors in the team, who can teach us and other teams in the area. There has been a familiarisation session with the new boat trailer and a boat/stretcher exercise.

We have covered comms, IT, wellbeing, dementia and navigation. We are about to embark on a training programme for 2 new drone pilots, with 2 more to follow shortly.

External training has had a good uptake from the team, this has encompassed Search Management training, PPE Inspection training, Jesip and Strategic Response training, Blue light driver training, boat driving – awaiting completion, mental health first aid training, responding to suicide training, a party leader course, a webinar on the SOS Emergency feature on phones, another relating to ropes and rope management.

Helicopter training has proved elusive to date, hopefully the next couple of months will see some sessions finally come to fruition.

A huge thankyou to everyone who has organised training or helped in any way, both within the team and those not in the team.

Penny Kirby MBE

Training Officer

Incidents

These incidents have been kindly reproduced from our emergency management platform D4H (www.d4h.com).

They are listed in order from the date of the last AGM on 18[th] November 2025.

Number of '999' calls for the calendar year to date = 146 which includes 86 with the team on the fell and 60 alerts, where the incident was reported in as a '999' but there was no need for any significant team involvement and therefore not formally logged as an incident - this is where, for example, the Team Leader talks them off the mountain with minimal team member involvement or missing persons turn up before the team is fully mobilised. Since the last AGM there have been 154 incidents of which 89 were callouts and 65 were alerts.

Title Date Description
161. Scafell -
Tent blown
away, talked off		 2024-11-30
01:56:00		 The Team Leader was alerted very early this morning about a lone walker who was in need of
assistance. He was camping close to the summit of ScaFell when strong winds destroyed his
tent. He was cold, disorientated and needed some guidance to descend to safety.
The Team Leader was able to make contact by phone and gave directions to Wasdale.
Regular Phonefinds were made to monitor his progress safely down to the valley floor, after
which the Team Leader stood down and closed the log.
162. Fell Runner
- Rakehead Crag		 2024-12-12
13:29:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about a lone fell runner who had slipped on a steep
descent on the flanks of Sca Fell, sustaining an extremely painful upper arm and/or shoulder
injury. This rendered her unable to move at all. A callout was swiftly made and several team
members were also available to travel direct to the scene. Additional support was requested
from Helimed assets but unfortunately due to weather conditions and cloud cover they had
to abort. Once on scene the increasingly cold runner was assessed and provided with
additional shelter and insulation. A Coastguard helicopter with winching capability was then
requested to help with a swift evacuation, with Rescue 199 from Prestwick quickly
responding. Strong pain relief was given to the runner to make her as comfortable as
possible, before transferring to a vacuum mattress (full body splint) and team stretcher in
readiness for the winch evacuation. Rescue 199 arrived on scene and winched the runner on
board before a transfer to hospital. Thanks to all three helicopter crews for their rapid
support. We’d like also to wish the runner a very swift and full recovery. She was 42 miles into
a solo Bob Graham Round attempt, so hopefully once recovered she will return to complete
the challenge.
163. 2 males
lost coming off
Scafell Pike		 2024-12-14
17:10:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about two walkers who had become disoriented on
their descent, turning towards Piers Gill rather than Wasdale at Lingmell Col. The Team
Leader managed to establish their exact location via Phonefind directed them to the correct
path. Regular updates from Phonefind made this a ‘dot watching’ exercise back to the valley
floor,after which the team was stood down and the logclosed.
164. Male lost
descending
Scafell Pike		 2024-12-17
14:12:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had become disoriented in misty
conditions on his descent from Scafell Pike. The Team Leader managed to establish an exact
location via Phonefind and was able to confirm that he was now on the correct path. After a
brief phone call the walker was able and willing to complete his descent unaided and
contacted thepolice when he was safelyoff the fell.
165. 15 Overdue
from Scafell
Pike		 2024-12-21
15:30:00		 A short alert for the Team Leader when a walker called Cumbria Police concerned for their
friends’ safety. A party of 20 walkers had set off to climb Scafell Pike, with 5 turning around,
concerned about the weather and the lack of daylight remaining. As the Team Leader was
gathering further information there was another call confirming that the group was all safe
and nearly back at the car park. They had wisely turned around before ascending to the
summit in poor conditions. The team would like to wish all of our friends and supporters a
veryMerryChristmas.
166. Dropped
999 call, vehicle
stuck		 2024-12-24
20:11:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police on Christmas Eve. A very broken mobile call was
passed through with very vague details but included the words ‘Scafell’, ‘foggy’ and ‘van’. The
mobile number was unconfirmed. With very little to go on, the Team Leader asked a team
member to check out the Wasdale car parks, with nothing significant found. After some time,
a further call was received, the informant’s van had broken down on Hardknott Pass in a
precarious position. Happily the occupants were safe and well and at the nearest farm, and
theprospect of a late night Christmas Eve callout averted.
167. Brown
Tongue - Knee
injury/exhausted		 2024-12-26
15:42:00		 A call was received yesterday about a lone walker who was struggling to make progress with
a painful knee injury. A passing walker had stopped to help and made the call. A few minutes
later further information was reported with the walker feeling unwell. A team member was
already on the fell and made his way quickly down to the walker. After an assessment, and
with the walker feeling better at this point, he was able to descend slowly without additional
support. Most of the team members remained at base until it was confirmed that the hill party
had made it safely down to Brackenclose. We wish the walker well and our thanks go to the
passingwalker for his initial help.
168. Wast water
Screes - party of
7		 2024-12-28
21:26:00		 The 168th 999 alert for the year makes 2024 a new record for the team. Cumbria Police
requested help from the team for a party of 7 walkers, one of whom had pulled a muscle
whilst walking on the Screes near the lakeshore. A full callout was made, and both a boat
team and a party on foot were directed to the scene. The foot party arrived first and assessed
the injured walker, and another in the party who had also injured their leg. All in the walking
party were cold and wet. Fortunately the injuries were not severe which enabled
straightforward transfers to the boat and then journeys to the shore at the pump house. We
hope the walkers recoverquicklyfrom their injuries.
1. Ambulance
Assist -
Whitehaven
Cemetery		 2025-01-02
12:08:00		 A short ambulance assist was required for a man who had fallen and sustained a broken leg
whilst visiting a cemetery in Whitehaven. The North West Ambulance Service team was on
scene but needed some help for the transfer to the ambulance. A limited callout was made
and some local team members attended direct with others ready at base if further team
equipment or people were needed. However, the extra help at base was not needed and the
transfer to the ambulance was completed quickly under the direction of NWAS. We wish the
man a speedyrecovery.
2. Lost Upper
Esk		 2025-01-05
09:23:00		 An alert was received this morning from Cumbria Police about a party of five walkers who
were reporting themselves close to hypothermia. The information came via an iPhone
emergency satellite message so further information was initially quite limited. Helpfully an
exact location was obtained, although this was in a remote area in Upper Eskdale. Further
information received via another message indicated that one person was also ill, and another
had injured his ankle. They had mis navigated off Scafell Pike summit, attempting to return to
Seathwaite.The Team Leader swiftly made a full callout and asked an advance party of two
to make their way as quickly as possible to the location. A Coastguard helicopter from
Prestwick (Rescue 199) also responded quickly. The assumption at this stage was that the
walkers had been lost since the previous afternoon. Further iPhone emergency messages
indicated the party was moving down the valley towards the road, although for a time it was
unclear whether this was the whole group or just one or two people. Thankfully the advance
party had not travelled too far when they met up with the party of five walking out. All were
safe and able to complete the journey to the road and then to a local hostelry, where they
could organise a taxi back to Borrowdale. The debrief ascertained that the group had set off
from North Yorkshire at midnight, arrived at Seathwaite and then set off on their walk at 4am.
They had made the summit of Scafell Pike but then found themselves in Upper Eskdale; cold,
wet and concerned for their safety. They were not equipped properly for full winter conditions
on the high fells, and were also inexperienced. At times they were waist deep in snow. To their
credit, they fully acknowledged their misjudgement in this attempt and were humble and
thankful for the help, fully aware this could have ended with a much worse outcome. Thanks
again to the support from Coastguard helicopter Rescue199.
3. Misper
reported lost -
Scafell Pike area		 2025-01-06
20:52:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police from a relative of a lone walker. He had not been in
contact for over 24 hours, having known to have been on Scafell Pike on Sunday morning. He
had subsequently sent a video from an unknown location at 2pm. Once the video was
reviewed, it was possible that it was taken from the Rosset Gill area and as such our
neighbours at Langdale Ambleside MRT were asked for their opinion. However, shortly
afterwards there was another call from the informant saying that the walker was safe and well
and on his way home. This news was very gratefully received by both teams and the log
closed.
4. Birker Fell -
RTC		 2025-01-09
22:32:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police to assist with helping a stranded motorist off Birker
Fell and back to safe ground after a road traffic accident. A limited callout was made to take
a team 4x4 vehicle to the scene and assist, however a team member in the valley was able to
get to the location quickly and provide assistance to walk off.
5. 2 Reported
Lost & Overdue		 2025-01-12
18:06:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about two walkers who were reported as being lost
in the snow. They had reported this to friends who had then called the police when they
became overdue. Happily, as the Team Leader was gathering information and considering
calling the team out, another call was taken by the police confirming they had made it safely
down to the valleyand were at their vehicle.
6. Corridor
Route - 2
lost/benighted
walker		 2025-01-18
18:12:00		 A call was received on Saturday evening about two walkers who had mis-navigated away from
the Corridor Route aiming for Borrowdale and were concerned for their safety. A location was
obtained from the initial police call. The Team Leader was able to contact the walkers and
ensure that they were confident to stay in their current location and wait for the team. An
advance party including Jess, our search dog, was tasked in advance of the first team vehicle.
Four legs proved better than two, with Jess making a find and directing the rescuers to the
two cold walkers. A careful route was then taken down some fairly steep terrain before
completing an uneventful walk back to Gavel Neese. The walkers took a taxi ride back to
Seathwaite before the team stood down after resetting the vehicles. (Huge thanks too for the
Burnthwaite Farm brownies fresh out of the oven for the advanceparty)
7. Eskdale
Valley - 5
walkers overdue		 2025-01-18
20:07:00		 During callout 6, five inexperienced walkers were reported overdue by their friend after
setting off for an impromptu walk up Scafell and Scafell Pike from Upper Eskdale. Most team
members deployed for the ongoing callout in Wasdale were asked to hold for possible
redeployment and additional team members were also asked for their availability. However,
shortly after this another call was received, confirming that the party had just returned safe
and well to a local hostelry,so the logwas closed.
8. Lost on
Scafell Pike		 2025-02-11
16:03:00		 After a quiet period of over three weeks without a callout, a call was received from Cumbria
Police. Two walkers had mis-navigated off Scafell Pike summit plateau in misty conditions
and ended up beneath Rough Crag. In very cold conditions a full callout was made by the
Team Leader, with several parties moving towards the walkers via different routes.
Fortunately the walkers had been able to be guided down over the phone to Upper Eskdale,
and the advance rescue team party met them walking out on the path. Both were safe and
well and so allparties were stood down and walked back to the vehicles.
9. Slightside - 2
cragfast &
unable to move		 2025-02-15
15:17:00		 A busy weekend kicked off with a call from Cumbria Police on Saturday afternoon. Two well-
prepared walkers had called for assistance as one of the walkers was suffering from a panic
attack and was unable to make further progress. A location was obtained from Phonefind.
With no injuries reported, the Team Leader asked a small party to proceed to the scene and
provide assistance. After the long walk-in, the two walkers were found just off the ridge but
on some steep ground in extremely cold conditions. A rope rescue was required and
successfully undertaken, bringing both walkers back to the ridge in turn. Once on safe
ground, and after re-warming in a shelter with some additional layers, both were able to walk
out unaided, and were dropped off close by at their accommodation in Eskdale. We wish
them both well.
10. Scafell Pike -
7 Lost		 2025-02-15
15:50:00		 A short alert when a group of seven walkers were reporting themselves lost after aborting an
ascent of Scafell Pike due to the winter conditions. However, as the Team Leader was
gathering information it was confirmed that the group had fortunately met up with other
walkers who were able to guide them safely back down to Seathwaite.
11. 2 Lost in
Eskdale		 2025-02-16
13:07:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about a party of three walkers who were lost on
Scafell Pike. The Team Leader was able to gain an accurate location via Phonefind, which was
in Upper Eskdale, this was significantly off course for their intended destination of Wasdale.
One of the walkers had a minor injury but was able to walk out, so the Team Leader guided
them out over the phone and monitored with further Phonefind's. They reached the valley
safelyand the logwas closed later when theywere back to their car.
12.
Hollowstones -
Head Injury		 2025-02-16
13:23:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police regarding a walker who had fallen and injured his
head and his arm. He was walking slowly downhill with other members of his group. The Team
Leader made contact and established that the walker had a high pain score and was still light
headed so helicopter assistance was requested, alongside a full callout. Helimed 63
responded from the North East and managed to negotiate the cloud base to land close
enough for the crew to walk to scene. Thankfully after an assessment the injuries were not
too serious and the walker was able to walk down. Team members ascended to meet the
casualty, and received a handover from the Helimed crew. However, whilst on scene another
walker was passing who had also taken a fall, also with a suspected arm fracture and they
were also making their own way down. With another land ambulance requested, both
casualties were able to complete their descent off the fell under the watchful eyes of the
team Remote Rescue Medical Technicians. We wish them both a quick recovery and offer
thanks to the Helimed crew for their help.
13. Scafell Pike -
Lost upper Esk		 2025-02-16
15:43:00		 As callout 12 was in progress another 999 call was received requesting help. Two walkers had
become separated from the rest of their group and mis-navigated in misty conditions.
PhoneFind established that they were near Pen off the Eskdale side of Scafell Pike summit.
They were concerned for their safety and stuck on steep and icy ground. Some members of
the party already on the fell agreed to ascend via Mickledore and proceeded to their location.
Once on scene the walkers were reassured and assisted to descend into Upper Eskdale for
an easier but longer route to safety. En route a further lost lone walker was also encountered
(by good fortune) and he joined the party. After the long walk out, team members returned to
base to reset the vehicles readyfor the next callout.
14. Scafell Pike -
4 reported as
overdue		 2025-02-23
17:52:00		 A brief alert when the team was called by Cumbria Police about a party of three family
members that were overdue and uncontactable during a walk up Scafell Pike. The Team
Leader asked for car parks to be checked for the group’s vehicle, but happily as further
information was being gathered contact was able to be made. All members of the party were
all safe and well andgot in touch when theywere back in range of a mobile signal.
15. Piers Gyhll
Bad Steep - 2
stuck		 2025-02-25
21:19:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about two walkers who were reporting themselves
‘stuck’ on their descent from Scafell Pike. The initial call coordinates put them at the ‘bad
step’ on the path adjacent to the edge of Piers Gill. This is a short scramble with some
exposure. A very poor mobile signal made it difficult to establish too much further information
but it was clear help was needed. The team was called out and made their way to scene. Once
there, the two walkers were reassured and a simple rope system was established to ensure
safety and give confidence to descend to the bottom of the scramble. After they were back
on safer ground the party walked off to Gavel Neese, where the team vehicles were located.
Weary team members then made their way back to base. The equipment was checked and
the vehicles reset readyfor the next callout,before makingtheir wayhome.
16. Scafell Pike -
concern for Son		 2025-03-02
02:03:00		 The Duty Team Leader was alerted when a concerned family member called Cumbria Police.
A group of four inexperienced walkers had ascended Scafell Pike, but had not been
contactable for many hours. Their cars were still at Seathwaite. As information was gathered,
it transpired that the group were planning on camping overnight. With the local knowledge
that it was quite likely that the group had no mobile signal in this area, it was deemed that no
immediate response was necessary. The Keswick MRT Team Leader was also notified for
awareness. In the morning, one of the walkers was able to be contacted on their descent and
confirmed that theyhad been campingin the SprinklingTarn area and were all safe and well.
17. Scafell Pike
Mispers
Benighted on
Summit		 2025-03-03
19:20:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police about two inexperienced walkers who were not able
to get down from the summit in dark and misty conditions and were getting increasingly cold.
The Team Leader was able to talk to the walkers; the main problem was that they had no head
torches to enable a safe guided ‘walk-off’. They agreed to stay put and wait for help. A limited
callout was made and some members were diverted from the ongoing team training. Once
on scene at the summit, head torches and extra clothing was provided and the two walkers
escorted back to their vehicle at Brackenclose.
18. Benighted
on the Pike		 2025-03-06
18:57:00		 A full callout was initiated on Thursday after a call from Cumbria Police. Two walkers had
been ascending Scafell Pike and separated at Lingmell Col when one wanted to make the
summit and the other stayed behind. Visibility was poor with mist and rain and with darkness
setting in, both walkers became lost with no head torches and called for help. A Phonefind
located the walker at Lingmell Col, but the accuracy from the initial police call coordinates
gave a reasonably wide search radius for the one higher up. Faced with the possibility of a
search in poor conditions further help was requested from Duddon And Furness MRT. The
team were able to locate the walker at Lingmell Col in the location expected. The second
walker was also found after a brief search, however, was very cold and wet. Fortunately after
a change of clothes and some rewarming he was able to also walk off back to Brackenclose
to be reunited with his walking partner. Some lessons were learned by the walkers, after
setting off very late in the day. Thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT for their support once
again.
19. Lost
Mitredale Forest		 2025-03-07
17:57:00		 A straightforward callout was swiftly resolved after two walkers had separated in a walk in
Miterdale forest. One had become lost and needed some help to return to her vehicle as
darkness was starting to fall. Two local team members volunteered to attend and were able
to quickly locate the first walker and escort her down. The two walkers were then reunited at
their vehicle,and the logwas closed.
20. Ankle Injury
Pike		 2025-03-08
14:01:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had slipped on scree, injured
his ankle, and was finding it difficult to continue. The Team Leader was able to make contact,
and as the walker was willing and able to make slow progress, he was advised to keep moving
to stay warm. The team was called out and met the walker stoically descending. After an
assessment, it was agreed that it was safe to continue under his own steam. The slow walk
to Brackenclose was successfully completed by the walker, escorted by some team
members,with others diverted to another callout higher upon the mountain.
21. Broken
Ankle Pike		 2025-03-08
14:38:00		 As incident No.20 was being assessed, a further call came in from Cumbria Police. Another
walker had fallen and suffered a serious ankle injury, very close to the location of the ongoing
callout. The team were already mobilised, but due to the nature of the injury helicopter
support was also requested. Helimed 58 from Langwathby responded quickly and they were
able to land close to the scene and provide the medical assessment and care required.
However, the team was still required to provide support for the stretcher carry to the
helicopter. This was completed and then the team members descended in case a stretcher
carry was needed for the previous callout. This was not required and so returned to base to
reset the vehicles in readiness for the next tasking. We wish the walker a quick recovery from
his injuryand thank the Helimed 58 crew for their help.
22. Scafell Pike -
Assistance
requested		 2025-03-12
13:30:00		 A short alert for the Team Leader when Cumbria Police was called about three walkers who
had asked for help high on Scafell Pike. A poor signal meant the information received was
patchy. It appeared that they may have been caught in a wintry shower or that winter
conditions underfoot were causing concern. However, a short while later, a further call was
received statingthat theywere now out of danger and did not require MR assistance.
23. Crag Fast
Red Gill / Lords
Rake		 2025-03-14
12:48:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about a lone walker who had become crag fast after
veering off course whilst descending Lord’s Rake. The Team Leader was able to make contact
with the walker, who was stuck on steep and icy ground in a precarious spot. The team was
called out and also help was requested from a Coastguard helicopter with winching
capability. Fortunately Rescue 199 from Prestwick was able to respond quickly and
comfortably beat team members to the scene. They were able to locate and then winch the
casualty to safety from the crag before dropping him off at Brackenclose. Our thanks go to
the crew of Rescue 199 for theirquick response.
24. Person
unwell - Passed
to LAMRT.		 2025-03-15
19:14:00		 A short alert when the Team Leader was notified about an unwell walker. However as further
information was obtained it was determined that the location was in Langdale Ambleside
MRT’s area and after a handover theysuccessfullycompleted the rescue.
25. Eskdale - 1
male stuck		 2025-03-22
14:59:00		 A short alert when a call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who was
concerned for his safety, having been separated from his walking party and was on ground
with loose rock. However, after a few minutes a further call was received that the party had
reunited and the walker was back on safeground. The team was stood down.
26. Scafell -
Fallen climber		 2025-03-24
14:55:00		 The team was called out on Monday afternoon by Cumbria Police about a serious incident
involving a fallen climber. Two climbers were ascending a crag on Sca Fell, when the lead
climber took a large fall. He was seriously injured, unable to communicate and ended the fall
suspended on the rope below the second climber. Fortunately, the second climber was
uninjured and still secure on the crag, but urgently needed assistance. The team was very
quickly called out and help was requested from a Coastguard helicopter. Helimed 58 also
responded quickly. As the team assembled at Brackenclose and prepared the large inventory
of rope rescue, medical and other equipment required for a hugely challenging technical
rescue, Rescue 199 arrived overhead. With the backup plan to uplift team members high on
Sca Fell, saving significant time and effort for team members to get close to the scene, the
crew of Rescue 199 took a close look at whether a winch rescue was possible. After some
time carefully assessing the risks to all involved, an attempt to winch was made. We don’t
normally use superlatives, but with some truly amazing and heroic flying skills and teamwork,
they managed to both access and then safely winch the climber directly into the helicopter
from his suspended position on the end of the rope. A transfer to Helimed 58 was then
completed to allow advanced medical care to be given, before then flying to a suitable
hospital. With the most urgent rescue completed by the helicopter crews, the rescue of the
second climber still remained on what is one of the most inaccessible points of the Wasdale
MR area. With the offer of further uplift assistance from Rescue 199 still a possibility (but not
a guarantee), some members of the team set off on foot with heavy loads to the top of Sca
Fell. However, after a refuel of the helicopter, the remaining ten team members were very
grateful to get the lift up, comfortably overtaking the hill party. At this point, the technical rope
rescue began, with several hundred metres of rope and countless other pieces of equipment
assuring the safety of both team members and the climber. After some time, in very cold and
windy conditions at height, the first rescuer was able to be lowered to the climber. She was
able to very bravely and ably assist the rescue, doing most of the work herself to climb and
scramble back to safe ground. After de-rigging, the long walk down to Brackenclose was
completed safely and the climber re-united with awaiting family members. The team
travelled back to base and spent considerable time checking equipment for damage and
resetting the vehicles, before a debrief and finally being stood down to return home. Our
thanks to both helicopter crews, and especially the crew of Rescue 199, whose actions
brought the time down for the injured climber getting to definitive medical care by many
hours. We wish both climbers well and offer our very best wishes that the injured climber
recovers fullyfrom his injuries.
27. Eskdale -
Female with
knee injury		 2025-03-25
13:28:00		 The team was called out by Cumbria Police to help a walker who had sustained a knee injury
and was struggling to descend back to Wha House. The team was called out but as the walker
was able to make slow progress with the assistance of other walkers, a small party was
dispatched to assist. Under the watchful eye of the Team Leader with regular PhoneFinds the
walker was able to complete a slow descend successfully. The Wasdale MR party met up
with the group later in their descent. Our thanks to the injured walker for her determination
and to the other walkers who helped. We wish her aquick recovery.
28. Reported
lost, with leg
injury		 2025-03-27
17:12:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police about a lone walker who had reached the summit of
Scafell Pike but had become disoriented in the mist. With wind chill high on the tops,
conditions were poor. The walker was cold and wet and was unable to navigate down. The
Team Leader attempted to make contact but was unable to talk directly to the walker. A
further call was also received from another walker who could hear cries for help, but could
not locate them. A full call-out was initiated and the team headed down the valley. After some
time contact was finally made by mobile and it transpired that the lone walker had met up
with the other walkers who had then escorted him off via the tourist path back to Wasdale
Head. With this good news the team was stood down and returned to base. Thanks to the
walkers who helpedprevent apotentiallylongcall-out.
29. Scafell Pike -
Reported
overdue		 2025-04-02
21:52:00		 A short alert was quickly resolved after a call from Cumbria Police about a party of three
walkers. They had set off at 4pm and were considered overdue and could not be contacted.
The exact route was unknown, and they were not equipped to be on the fell at night. However,
as the Team Leader was making initial enquiries there was another call confirming that the
partyhad safelyreturned to their accommodation.
30. Stuck on
Broad Stand		 2025-04-04
11:44:00		 The team was called three times on Friday by Cumbria Police. In the first alert a party of two
walkers were attempting to ascend from Mickledore via Broad Stand to Sca Fell summit. They
had gone off route and found themselves cragfast near Mickledore Chimney. A full team
callout was made for the rope rescue. Due to slightly low numbers declared initially, Duddon
and Furness MRT were asked to support, but subsequently were stood down when more
team members became available. Following the hard slog up via Green How up to the top of
Broad Stand, team members established a rope system for safety and descended to the
walkers. They were found in a precarious position. Happily they were unhurt, and were able
to make the assisted scramble to safe ground with the assistance of team members and
ropes for security. Following de-rigging everyone made their way back to Brackenclose for a
debrief and then to base to reset the vehicles. Thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT for their
willingness to help ,it is much appreciated.
31. Cramp on
Pike		 2025-04-04
16:12:00		 During incident 30 on Broad Stand, a further call was received from Cumbria Police. A well-
equipped walker high on Scafell Pike was suffering from severe and painful cramping in his
leg. The Team Leader diverted some team members to the scene to assess and help. Happily
the walker had recovered somewhat and was determined to make a slow walk down under
his own steam. This continued without event to Brackenclose. We hope he recoveredquickly.
32. Concern for
missing male
Pillar		 2025-04-04
18:02:00		 A call was received regarding an overdue walker from a walk up Pillar. The walker was last
known to be at the summit, and had not returned to his vehicle when expected. Due to the
possibility of a descent into Ennerdale, Cockermouth MRT were alerted, however shortly
afterwards thegood news was received that he had turned upsafe and well in Wasdale.
33. Female
fainted Brown
Tongue		 2025-04-05
12:07:00		 A call from Cumbria Police was received about a walker on an ascent of Scafell Pike. She was
reported to have collapsed and was in and out of consciousness. A passing doctor had
stopped to help. A full callout was made quickly and the team responded. Once on scene a
handover was received from the doctor and an assessment made. After some treatment, a
routine stretcher carry was subsequently made to Brackenclose to an awaiting ambulance,
before onward transfer to hospital. We wish the walker well in her recovery, and hope she
returns soon to complete her walk. Thanks again to the passing doctor for his help and hope
he still made the cut off on the race he was undertaking.
34. Concern for
fell runners		 2025-04-06
14:36:00		 A short alert was resolved quickly after an overdue fell runner was reported. However, as the
Team Leader and others were gathering information on the route taken, another call
confirmed she had been in touch and simply a poor mobile phone signal had prevented
updates home. Happily,a false alarm withgood intent.
35. Sore Knee -
Corridor route		 2025-04-07
17:11:00		 A call was received on Monday evening about a walker who had twisted her knee on the
Corridor Route near Piers Gill. The injury had steadily got worse through the day, eventually
becoming so painful that she could not continue. As many team members were preparing for
team training on a Monday, many team members were able to attend, including a first outing
on the fell for our five new members. The team made their way to the scene and assessed the
walker. After some extra pain relief and splinting of the knee, a long stretcher carry was made
uphill to Lingmell Col, and then down to Brackenclose. The walker was then brought back to
base to be picked up by her partner in their own vehicle. We wish the walker well in her
recovery and hope she is back on the fells soon. Well done also to our new members,
hopefullythe longcarryhas notput them off!
36. Lost Piers
Gill river left		 2025-04-14
18:06:00		 A call was received on Monday evening regarding two walkers who had taken a wrong turn on
their descent from Scafell Pike heading for Brackenclose. Recognising some dangerous
ground near to Piers Gill and unsure of their location they wisely called for help. An accurate
Phonefind put them near Lingmell crags on the West side of Piers Gill. As there is no safe
descent alongside this side of the gill, the Team Leader was able to direct them back up to
Lingmell Col to regain the main tourist path. Once on the path, the walkers were able to make
their wayback the their vehicle in the valley. Agood outcome.
37. Calf Cove -
Passed to
Keswick		 2025-04-18
17:30:00		 North West Ambulance Service alerted the Team Leader to a walker who had possibly injured
his leg high on the Scafell Massif. Communications directly with the party involved were not
possible and it was unclear as to whether the walker was still walking and the severity of the
problem. Eventually a location was determined to be at Calf Cove, Great End. This was in
Keswick MRT’s area and so the callout was handed over. Keswick MRT then called
Cockermouth for help with a possible stretcher carry, so 3 teams involved. After some time,
they were stood down when a message came through to say that some other walkers had
helped him off the hill.
38. Greathall
Gill		 2025-04-20
14:31:00		 A call was received yesterday from Cumbria Police about a walker in a family group who had
fallen on steep ground, suffering a leg injury that made it impossible for her to continue. The
team was called out and made their way to the scene. After a medical assessment and
splinting of the leg, the walker was transferred into the team stretcher. The short descent was
completed safely and the walker transferred to their own vehicle for onward transfer to
hospital. We hope the walker recoversquicklyand is back on the fells soon.
39. Great Gable
- Shouts heard		 2025-04-20
15:30:00		 Three separate calls were made to Cumbria Police yesterday after hearing shouts in the
White Napes area of Great Gable. However, after assessing all of the information and
consulting with the informants and Cumbria Police it was decided that there was insufficient
evidence of an ongoing need for MR assistance. It was likely that the situation had resolved
or it was a false alarm with good intent. The log was kept open in case of further information
but none was forthcoming.
40. Scafell Pike -
Spilt from group
& Lost		 2025-04-20
21:51:00		 A late night call from Cumbria Police about an inexperienced walker who had become
separated from his group. He had mis-navigated and ended up on some steep ground below
the Corridor Route. After some difficulties in making contact directly, an accurate location
was determined. As the walker was uninjured, a small party was tasked to located and then
escort the walker off the fell,after which he was re-united with the rest of hisgroup.
41. Red Pike -
Overdue male		 2025-04-23
22:40:00		 A bit of a catch up on call-outs coming, after a reasonably quiet period came to an abrupt end
with a flurry of call-outs recently. This was an alert from Cockermouth MRT when a walker
intending to summit Red Pike (Wasdale) was reported overdue. A team member checked out
Overbeck car park to look for the vehicle, which wasn’t there. Eventually Cockermouth MRT
made contact with the walker around the Green Gable area, on his way back to Seathwaite.
Agood outcome.
42. Female
Unwell - Near
Brackenclose		 2025-05-03
21:04:00		 The team was called when a lone walker had fainted and was then having difficulty breathing
and shivering. A very kind passer-by had stopped to help and called it in. Once the team was
on scene an assessment was made. She was transferred to the team stretcher and then a
routine carry was made to Brackenclose. After further assessment by an awaiting ambulance
crew the walker was able to be discharged. We hope the walker has recovered well and would
like to recognise the walker who gave up her 3 peaks challenge to provide help to someone in
need.
43. Wastwater
Screes - reports
of a light		 2025-05-04
23:26:00		 The team was notified by Cumbria Police when a caller reported that a head torch had not
moved for some time on the Screes. They were concerned for the person’s safety. The Team
Leader asked a team member who lived in the valley to investigate. Happily by the time they
arrived at the lakeside the light had started to move. They were able to meet up with the
walker and confirm that all was well. A false alarm withgood intent and a happyoutcome.
44. Crag Fast
Broad Stand		 2025-05-07
11:24:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker reporting himself stuck on a crag
between Sca Fell and Scafell Pike. Having established this was likely to be on Broad Stand a
full callout was made. A long walk up to the summit of Sca Fell was made and then the team
descended to the walker in good conditions. After a routine rescue and lower to Mickledore,
the cragwas de-rigged and all returned to base to check equipment and reset the vehicles.
45. Broken
Ankle Black Sail		 2025-05-07
15:18:00		 As incident 44 was ongoing on Broad Stand, a further call was received from Cumbria Police.
A walker had fallen and injured his ankle. The location was near Looking Stead, and on
confirming an accurate location, it was established that it was in Cockermouth MRT’s area.
A quick handover was made and they successfully completed the rescue with assistance
from a Coastguard helicopter.
46. Broad Crag
col ankle injury		 2025-05-16
16:41:00		 A very busy weekend kicked off on Friday evening when a call was taken about a walker who
had injured his ankle and could not weight bear. The location was confirmed to be high up on
Broad Crag Col. With this location being very challenging for a stretcher carry, Coastguard
helicopter assistance was requested. With slightly low numbers, Duddon and Furness MRT
was also asked to help. On arrival to the scene, gusty conditions prevented a direct winch
into the helicopter, thus requiring hard graft to stretcher to a suitable location. Some team
members were thankful for a lift up by Rescue 199, with the rest ascending on foot. Once on
scene, with medical care handled by the R199 paramedic, the team prepared for an uphill
carry. The stretcher was eventually transferred direct into the helicopter near Ill Crag, and the
walker flown to hospital. The teams descended to the valley with spectacular views and
returned to their respective bases to reset vehicles and then wearily home. Thanks to Duddon
and Furness MRT and to Rescue 199 for their help once again. We hope the walker recovers
quicklyfrom his injury.
47. Leg Injury -
Brown Tongue		 2025-05-17
14:38:00		 Once on scene, an assessment was made, with the situation having improved somewhat.
Severe cramping in both legs was becoming less frequent after rehydration and some food.
After further rest, the walker was able to make progress by himself and, accompanied by
team members, he made it safely back down to Brackenclose. A good outcome, and
hopefullythe walker recoveredquickly.
48. Head Injury -
Brown Tongue		 2025-05-17
14:42:00		 When the team arrived some good work from passing walkers had dressed the wound; a
doctor was also in attendance. It was decided that the determined walker was able to
continue to walk slowly down to the valley floor. This was completed without incident, and
after a further check-up by the team Remote Rescue Medical Technicians, family members
took him to hospital for further treatment. We wish the walker well and hope he got back to
thepub later for his familydinner asplanned.
49. Faint Brown
Tongue		 2025-05-17
17:38:00		 A walker had fallen after losing consciousness and hit their head. Team members returned
to the vehicles and headed back to Brackenclose. Once on scene a medical assessment was
made. The walker had thankfully recovered quite well, and he was able to walk down to
Brackenclose unaided, under the watchful eyes of accompanying team members. A good
outcome after a busy day. Team members returned once more to base to reset the vehicles.
We hope the walker recovered well.
50. Fatality Sty
Head		 2025-05-18
16:18:00		 A tragic callout was initiated on Sunday, when North West Ambulance Service tasked the
team. A lone walker had been found by other walkers near to Sty Head; he had collapsed and
was not responding. A full callout was made and helimed support quickly requested, with
some team members already on the hill making themselves available to divert their planned
leisure walks. Helimed 08 from Blackpool was dispatched and was first on scene, but sadly
the walker was declared deceased. Team members arrived and assisted with the transfer to
the helicopter. We are thankful to Helimed 08 for flyingthe walker back to the valley,where

team members took care of him before handing over to Cumbria Police. A sad callout, and our sincere thoughts and condolences go to the walkers’ family and friends, and all those on the hill that were involved.

team members took care of him before handing over to Cumbria Police. A sad callout, and
our sincere thoughts and condolences go to the walkers’ family and friends, and all those on
the hill that were involved.
51. Corridor
route - Party
overdue		 2025-05-20
22:26:00		 A very swift resolution to two walkers being reported overdue after they had become
separated from the rest of their walking group. However, very quickly they were in contact to
saytheyhad arrived at their intended destination,so no further action was needed.
52. Shouts for
help -
Yewbarrow		 2025-05-22
17:00:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police when two walkers on Yewbarrow heard a scream
from the opposite side of the lake, and they were concerned that someone was in trouble.
The Team Leader contacted the walkers and also made further enquiries locally. Nothing
further to indicate a problem emerged, and with a huge potential search area, it was agreed
with the police that the log could be closed with deployment agreed if further calls were
received. A false alarm withgood intent.
53. 2 lost males
- Passed to
LAMRT		 2025-05-23
20:39:00		 A call was received on Friday evening; two walkers were reporting themselves lost in the mist
on their descent from Scafell Pike. The grid reference from the police call put them on Esk
Pike. This is in Langdale Ambleside’s area, so a quick handover with them was made and they
dealt with the callout and later successfullyrescued the walkers.
54. Fleswick Bay 2025-05-25
13:06:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had fallen, hurt his ankle and
was unable to bear weight. It was difficult initially to determine the exact location. As such, a
full callout was made to either support the coastguard team if required, or if the location was
determined to be MRT responsibility. Direct communication was then established with the
Whitehaven coastguard team, and it transpired that they were already close to the scene and
were able to deal with all aspects of the rescue. The team stood down and returned to base.
55. Little Hell
Gate Scree - 2
stuck males		 2025-05-25
15:11:00		 Two walkers had called Cumbria Police to ask for assistance. They appeared to be on the
traverse path at Little Hell Gate and had become afraid for their safety. It was also wet and
windy and they were not well equipped for these conditions, so they were becoming very
cold. All-in-all, quite intimidating conditions for inexperienced walkers. The Team Leader
made a full team callout to account for the worst-case scenario. The advance party got to the
walkers and found them wet and cold either side of the very loose scree slope of Little Hell
Gate, albeit on the correct route. After some re-warming, additional clothing and
reassurance, they were thankfully both able to mobilise and walk off under the direction of
team members. Once walked back down to the valley, the team made their way back to base
to dry off the equipment and reset the vehicles. We hope the walkers are none the worse for
their adventure, and we that they are back on the fells soon with some valuable experience
behind them.
56. Brown
Tongue - Cold
and Exhausted
couple		 2025-05-26
18:53:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police on Monday evening about two walkers who were
overdue from a walk up Scafell Pike. The Team Leader attempted to make contact but this
was not possible despite repeated attempts. A full team callout was made when their friends
received a call saying one of the walkers was struggling to make progress, falling frequently,
was very cold and still an hour away from the valley. Their location was still unknown. A hasty
search was planned with the main paths being covered, and as the first team was on the hill,
a further 999 call was received from a group attempting the 3 peaks who came across the two
walkers. This time an exact location was received, confirming they were on the main tourist
path. Once on scene the cold and exhausted walker, who had fallen multiple times, was
rewarmed and reassured after a medical assessment. A transfer to the team stretcher was
made to expedite the descent. Once back in the valley the walker was reassessed once more
before onward transfer in a friend’s vehicle. We hope the walker is recovering well, and
thanks to thepassingwalking groupwho called it in, givingus an exact location.
57. Search of
Scafell Pike for
young person		 2025-05-30
19:11:00		 A call was received yesterday evening from Cumbria Police. A young walker had separated
from his family group in misty conditions shortly after beginning their descent from Scafell
Pike summit. He had not been located after two and half hours, and there was growing
concern for his safety. The Team Leader acted quickly to initiate search assets from many
resources, including DFMRT, search dogs and a Coastguard helicopter Rescue R199 from
Prestwick. A Coniston MRT team member camping locally with his family also kindly offered
to help. Due to declining daylight and the possibility of a longer operation should the hasty
searches be unsuccessful, formal search management was also established in readiness for
a request for help from all Lake District MRTs for an escalated search on Saturday. As the
hasty search was expanding, with team members searching routes all over the Scafell Massif,
a 999 text message was received by Cumbria Police from two wild campers in Upper Eskdale.
This indicated the name and location of the missing walker. With this excellent news, a
nearby Duddon and Furness MRT search team arrived quickly, establishing that the walker
had sustained minor injuries only. Rescue 199 also diverted quickly to the location and was
on the ground at that location within 15 minutes of the text arriving. The walker was then flown
to Brackenclose to be reunited with his very relieved and grateful family. All teams stood
down and returned to their respective bases and homes. A great outcome for what was a very
worrying situation. We’d like to thank all the agencies involved for their rapid deployment and
teamwork. A special mention also for the wild campers for lookingafter the walker after they

heard his shouts and having the knowledge to send a 999 text when there is no mobile phone signal.

heard his shouts and having the knowledge to send a 999 text when there is no mobile phone
signal.
58. Keswick
Assist - Styhead		 2025-05-31
13:32:00		 The Team Leader was called yesterday by Keswick MRT for some help as they were handling
multiple callouts and were slightly short on numbers for stretcher carry from Sty Head. A
party of five volunteered to help and were heading down the valley when a further call
confirmed that they now had things covered, and that we were able to stand down, leaving us
with more resources forpotential callouts on our own 'patch'.
59.Lost Mispers 2025-05-31
15:04:00		 A short alert was quickly resolved after a call was received from Cumbria Police. Two walkers
had become separated from the rest of their walking party and could not be contacted. They
were concerned that they were now lost. However, a PhoneFind was able to confirm their
location and then the Team Leader was able to speak with them. They had re-found the path
and were headingdown with no need for MRT support.
60. Gable Beck
Overdue		 2025-05-31
18:33:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police when a walker was reported significantly overdue.
He was planning to visit the waterfalls at Ill Gill on Kirk Fell but had not returned to Wasdale
Head when expected. A full callout was made to have sufficient resources to search and
rescue from within the gill, including drone capability for a rapid search of the hazardous
area. Extra help was given once again from Duddon MRT. However, as the team was starting
the ground search, the good news was received that the walker had come back into mobile
signal and was now in a taxi. He has extended his walk significantly from his stated plans,
mis-navigated and ended upin the wrongvalley.
61. Mickledore -
Lost		 2025-06-07
01:31:00		 An overnight alert that was dealt with through technology, assistance from others and mobile
phones. The Team Leader was alerted by Cumbria Police about a group of walkers who set
off at 6pm and then were benighted and lost after summiting. With temperatures around 4C,
they were becoming very cold and concerned for their safety. Initially it proved difficult to
speak directly with the group, but then a passing group of two walkers undertaking the three
peaks made contact, as they were now with the group needing assistance. With their location
established near to Mickledore via PhoneFind, the passing walkers guided the others down
Mickledore gully and then back to the main tourist path. Regular further updates gave
reassurance that they were making good progress and they log was closed once back in the
valley. Thanks to the passing walkers for stopping to help, thus avoiding other team members
from beingcalled out.
62. Stream
crossing - Ankle
injury		 2025-06-07
18:51:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police about a walker who had fallen and injured her ankle.
After trying to continue, she was no longer able to bear weight. A full callout was made and
team members made their way to the scene. After a medical assessment, the offending ankle
was splinted to provide pain relief and stability, after which a routine stretcher carry was
made to Brackenclose. The walker was then transferred to one of her party’s vehicle for
onward transfer to hospital and further assessment. We wish her a quick recovery and hope
she is back on the fells soon.
63. Haystacks-
Head Injury		 2025-06-11
12:18:00		 A short alert after a call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who had sustained
a head injury. The location was given as Haystacks. The informant was not able to be
immediately contacted, and as Haystacks is not in our response area, a call was made to
Cockermouth MRT. After the location was confirmed, the callout was transferred to them,
and the Team Leader stood down.
64. Female,
Heavy bleeding -
Scafell Pike		 2025-06-12
18:56:00		 The team was called by North West Ambulance Service about a walker who was suffering
from a medical emergency with ongoing bleeding. She was at the summit of Scafell Pike
several hundred metres above the cloud base. The team was rapidly called out, and urgent
helicopter assistance also requested. Helimed 08 from Blackpool quickly mobilised but was
thwarted by the weather and low cloud base. Coastguard helicopter Rescue 199 also
responded but was also unable to access, however, stood by to support in any way possible.
With a rapid evacuation ruled out, team members made their way as quickly as possible to
the walker’s location; now at Lingmell Col, but unable to proceed further. Once on scene the
walker was sheltered and assessed in cold and windy conditions in the mist, whilst awaiting
further support from the other team members. Further treatment was provided, before
transferring to the team stretcher and beginning the descent. The plan was to stretcher below
the cloud base, then to winch from Rescue 199, and provide the quickest route to hospital
care. However, turbulent winds again prevented safe conditions to hover, and they had to
abort once again. Thus, a stretcher descent all the way to Brackenclose was required, before
a transfer to the helicopter and a flight to hospital for further treatment. We would like to
thank both helicopter crews for their support, and we hope the walker has a full and quick
recovery.
65. Brown
Tongue - Ankle
injury		 2025-06-14
17:41:00		 The Team Leader was called by North West Ambulance Service about a walker who had fallen
and suffered a painful injury to their ankle, rendering him unable to bear any weight. The team
was called out and made their way to the location, just above the stream crossing on Brown
Tongue. After a medical assessment and some pain relief, the ankle was splinted, and the
walker was transferred to the team stretcher. After a routine descent, the walker was handed
over to a waiting ambulance at Brackenclose for further assessment and treatment at
hospital. We hope the walker recoversquicklyand is back on the fells soon.
66. Mickledore-
4 lost		 2025-06-15
16:21:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police on Sunday about a party of four walkers who were
lost in mist, having summited Scafell Pike about 20 minutes earlier. With difficult mobile
phone communications, attempts to make a ‘talk off’ were unsuccessful. Another police call
shortly afterwards stated that one of the walkers was very cold and could not move and was
sheltering in the MRT stretcher box. With the worst-case scenario being a long and difficult
stretcher carry, extra help was requested from Duddon and Furness MRT as the team was
slightly low on numbers. Once on scene, it was found that two of the walkers had descended
into Upper Eskdale via Cam Spout but fortunately had realised their error and returned back
to within shouting distance of the stretcher box. The cold walker had also thankfully warmed
up with equipment in the stretcher box and was now able to be escorted down under his own
steam. A simple rope system was established to give extra confidence and support to
descend safely down Mickledore gully before the long walk back to the valley floor. Thanks to
Duddon and Furness MRT once again and to passing walker, Mick, for providing support
before team members arrived.
67. Knee Injury -
Above
Hollowstones		 2025-06-18
12:47:00		 The team was called on Wednesday afternoon by Cumbria Police. A walker had fallen and
painfully injured his knee, making it impossible to continue further. He has also lost
consciousness briefly but had since recovered. A full callout was made and the team made
their way to the location. Helimed 58 also responded but was unable to land close enough so
was forced to abort. A medical assessment was made, before transferring the walker
carefully into the team stretcher. The long but routine carry was then completed without
incident down to Brackenclose, where the walker was transferred into their own vehicle for
onward transfer to hospital. We wish the walker a very quick recovery and hope to see him
back on the fells soon.
68. Scafell Pike
Summit - Head
injury		 2025-06-21
03:50:00		 A very early start for the team when Cumbria Police alerted the Team Leader about a walker
who was reported to have collapsed, breathing, but unconscious. PhoneFind confirmed the
location as very high up on Scafell Pike, close to the summit plateau. Due to the location and
urgent nature of the alert, helicopter assistance was requested via a Coastguard helicopter
in addition to a full team callout. Rescue 936 from Caernarfon duly responded. The
Coastguard paramedic was first on scene and provided the medical assessment and
treatment. However, assistance from the team was still required to stretcher the walker from
the rocky path to the helicopter, which had managed to land some distance away. After two
uplifts of team members and equipment from Brackenclose, the walker was carefully
packaged in a vacuum mattress (fully body splint) into the team stretcher. The short carry
was completed and the walker was then flown back down to the valley to the awaiting land
ambulance for a handover. Huge thanks to the crew of Rescue 936 for their help once again,
it is much appreciated and saved much time and effort to get everything on scene quickly.
We hope the walker recoversquicklyand wish her all the best.
69. 8 Lost
coming off
Scafell Pike		 2025-06-21
19:13:00		 A call was taken yesterday evening from Cumbria Police. A passing walker had encountered
a group of 8 walkers who were lost after summiting Scafell Pike. One had a leg injury and was
walking slowly. The passing walker was heading for Seathwaite but the large group was trying
to get back to Hardknott Pass, where their cars were parked. With mobile communications
poor, and the weather deteriorating, the plan was for the whole party to continue to
Seathwaite, without any MR team intervention. As such, after a period of monitoring via
PhoneFinds,the call-out was transferred after a handover to Keswick MRT.
70. flashing
lights on Scafell
Pike		 2025-06-21
23:05:00		 A call was taken from Cumbria Police yesterday evening when a camper at the Brackenclose
campsite was concerned when she noticed flashing lights on Scafell Pike. The Team Leader
made some enquiries, but shortly afterwards the informant confirmed that the lights now
seemed to be descending. With the additional knowledge that Scafell Pike would have a lot
of 3 peakers on the fell with good mobile reception in this location, it was very unlikely that
another call would not be placed if anyone was in need of help. The log was closed, a false
alarm withgood intent.
71. Mickledore -
Lost misper		 2025-06-22
00:59:00		 Another call was received from Cumbria Police in the early hours of Sunday. One member of
a party attempting the three peaks had become separated and was now overdue. The rest of
the group had turned around due to poor weather, but this walker wanted to continue alone.
As time passed with no positive outcome, the Team Leader became concerned with poor
weather and visibility making hypothermia a possibility. A callout was made, and due to low
numbers, extra support from Duddon and Furness MRT was requested. Hasty searches
commenced along all of the access paths to the Scafell Pike summit and blackspots. After
an injury, it was great also to see search dog Jess back in action on the fell. As things were
looking more serious, it was with some relief that a call connected to the missing person. He
was able to share his location also, at Mickledore, near to the stretcher box. As a search party
was heading there already, it wasn’t long before team members were with the walker. He was
cold and wet, but reasonably well prepared with extra layers and food. His technology has
failed, leaving him without means of navigation, but he also had a power bank to recharge his
phone when it had drained completely. After a walk back down to the valley floor, he was
reunited with the rest of his walking party. Team members wearily made their way home after
a very busy ‘longest day’. As a recap, an urgent call awoke the Team Leaders at 03:50 on the
21st, with another three call-outs running almost continuously from 19:13 on the 21st to
07:29 today. Thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT for their support once again. In fact, it was
a very busy night across the Lake District teams, with neighbouring teams helping out all
across thepatch to handle manyconcurrent call-outs.
72. x8 overdue
Esk Hause		 2025-06-23
22:40:00		 The team was called about a party of four walkers being reported lost by a concerned friend.
On further discussion with the informant, it transpired that 8 people were overdue in total. A
larger group had split up earlier in the day. However, as the Team Leader was gathering his
thoughts, further calls were received by the informant that some of the missing people had
been in touch and were safely descending to Langdale (rather than their intended destination
of Seathwaite). A lack of mobile phone coverage resulted in no contact for some time. The
Team Leader mad a quick call to Langdale Ambleside MRT, in case things escalated.
However, shortly afterwards, it was confirmed that all missing party members were
accounted for and in the valley,so both teams stood down.
73. Lost top of
Piers Gill		 2025-06-24
13:37:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police about a walker who was lost, cold and wet, having
split from the rest of her group in misty conditions. The Team Leader spoke to the walker and
located her exact position via PhoneFind. This put her close to the head of Piers Gill, but off
the path, making a ‘talk off’ somewhat risky in the conditions. A full callout was made, with
some team members already on the fell in the valley being asked to go direct as an advance
party. However, not long afterwards, the walker phoned back to say two passing walkers had
found her and were going to escort her back down to the valley. With regular PhoneFinds
giving reassurance, her descent was overseen by the Team Leader. The advance party also
met up with the group to complete the descent to Brackenclose. Thanks to the two passing
walkers for helping,it’s much appreciated.
74. Lost Upper
Esk		 2025-06-24
17:53:00		 A second call of the day for a lost lone walker in wet and misty conditions on Scafell Pike.
After some very patchy communications, it was determined that the lone walker was in Upper
Eskdale. A callout was made and a team member in the valley was asked to go in advance
with a shelter and warm clothing, with a further team member already on the fell diverting
from their planned walk to attend. Directions were given to the walker on the safest route
from Upper Eskdale out to the road. The advance party found the walker safe and well near
Lincove Bridge and escorted him safelyback to the team vehicles.
75. Fell Runner
ankle injury
Beck Head		 2025-06-28
18:05:00		 We were notified by Cockermouth MRT about a fell runner who had sustained an ankle injury.
When the exact location was determined, it was in Wasdale’s patch. After a handover, the
Wasdale MRT Team Leader swiftly called out the team. Once on scene the fell runner was
assessed and the offending ankle splinted for extra stability. After transferring to the team
stretcher, the tricky carry down to Gavel Neese was completed without incident. A handover
to the awaiting ambulance crew was then undertaken, before returning to base to reset the
vehicles. We hope the fell runner is recovering well, and hope he returns to successfully
complete his Bob Graham challenge in the future.
76. Coniston
Assist		 2025-06-28
18:45:00		 A call for support was received from Coniston MRT when a walker had become separated
from his group and could not be contacted. It was quite possible that he was in Wasdale
MRT’s area, although the destination was at Wrynose Pass. However, it was resolved with a
good outcome when he met other walkers and was accompanied back to Hardknott Pass via
Upper Eskdale.
77. Lost near
piers Gill		 2025-06-28
19:51:00		 As incident No.75 was ongoing, a further call was received from Cumbria Police, this time via
the iPhone satellite emergency call. Two walkers descending Scafell Pike had got lost in poor
conditions, were wet and cold and were concerned for their safety. The coordinates received
put them in a hazardous location between Lingmell crags and Piers Gill; further descent in
any direction from here is dangerous. After a period without clear communications, a mobile
phone conversation was possible, after which the walkers were asked to remain in their
position and await team members to arrive. Some team members were diverted from the
ongoing callout, with additional team members deploying from base. Fortunately, the
walkers had stayed put as requested, allowing team members to locate them and then walk
back uphill to Lingmell Col,and then down the touristpath to Brackenclose.
78. Lost Walkers
on Pen		 2025-06-29
17:14:00		 Walker who had become separated from the two other people in his group from a walk to
Scafell Pike summit. He was walking faster than the others and had then descended into the
wrong valley and was now in the Wasdale Head Inn. However, he could not make contact
with the others in his group. Their intended destination was Seathwaite in Borrowdale. The
Team Leader concluded that there was no reason to deploy, with the informant safe and well
in the wrong valley, and most likely the others were temporarily without a mobile phone
signal, which would resolve in time. A PhoneFind was used to see if the others could be
located to quickly resolve the situation, and the log left open. However, after a couple of
hours, with no resolution, concerns started to increase. When the PhoneFind links were
eventually clicked, the two walkers appeared on the map on Pen, behind Scafell Pike summit.
This is difficult terrain for inexperienced walkers with some steep ground nearby. In misty
conditions, a ‘talk-off’ was considered too risky and so a small party volunteered to make the
long walk to access the walkers and then escort back down to Wasdale. This was completed
without incident and with the party reunited in the valley the team returned to base and stood
down.
79. Dogs stuck
on corridor
route		 2025-07-01
20:28:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police; two dogs had become exhausted and were ‘staying
put’ after a long day out ascending Scafell Pike the long way around from Wrynose Pass. The
call had initially gone to Penrith MRT in error but then re-routed quickly. The group of three
walkers were now getting cold in misty and wet conditions. In an awkward location, a full
team callout was made, with the distinct possibility of a long night ahead. However, it was a
very nice surprise to find one of the walkers and the two dogs at Gavel Neese very early into
the rescue. The owner had managed to motivate them enough to descend after a rest and
then followed the lights to Wasdale Head. However, the other two walkers had now
separated; one returning to Wrynose Pass to retrieve the car and the other (who had gone to
get a signal to make the initial call) who was now still on the Corridor Route. As some team
members were already ascending from Brackenclose, and with the Team Leader now
assisting with directions on the mobile phone, the walker on the Corridor Route was met by
the team, descended safely to Brackenclose and was reunited with his friend at Wasdale
Head Inn. The third walker successfully made it back to the car and then drove around to pick
up his friends. Thanks to the The Wasdale Head Inn for their support to the team and their
kindness to the walkers and of course the verytired Basset Hounds!
80. Missing
Campers -
Found Langdale		 2025-07-04
11:50:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police after a concerned family member reported a party
of three that had not been heard from for 24 hours after leaving Wasdale for Langdale. Mobile
signals are patchy to non-existent in certain areas of the high fells and valleys. However, after
further investigation, the Team Leader contacted Langdale Ambleside MRT in case a search
became necessary. Happily, after some time contact was made with the group having
completed their route successfully,and both teams stood down.
81. Green Hole /
Mosedale - Cold
Fell runner		 2025-07-05
15:22:00		 A call was received via Langdale Ambleside MRT, about a fell runner in an organised race
showing the symptoms of hypothermia, appearing confused and stumbling. Other fell
runners were assisting her to the next checkpoint. The Team Leader requested support from
Duddon and Furness MRT due to slightly low numbers, and as they would likely be able to
access the fell runner more quickly from their base. They responded quickly. The race
paramedics also responded and were first to meet the descending party in Moasdale, close
to Cockley Beck. Duddon and Furness MRT were on scene shortly afterwards, by which time
the runner was moving well and had recovered somewhat. Thankfully, the fell-runner was
able to make it to CockleyBeck under her own steam. Agood outcome.
82. Walker
Stranded Skew
Gill area		 2025-07-09
20:08:00		 A call was received via Keswick MRT, about a walker stating they were stranded on steep
ground, near Sty Head. It was received via the iPhone satellite text service. The Team Leader
attempted to make contact, without success, so a callout was made. Communications with
the satellite emergency service are text messages only, and it was established that a party of
4 had undertaken a very long day out, when then walker was struggling on some steep ground.
The others had then left him to continue their walk. Team members made their way to the
location indicated from the initial message, but nothing was found, and so they returned to
base. It transpired that the walker had been assisted down by another passing group, after
one of his group had stayed for a while and attempted to help. He had passed the update that
he was safe on to the Emergency Centre, but somehow that message hadn’t made it back to
the Team Leader. Sometimes,technologyhelps,at other times,not so much!
83. Cramp on
Pike		 2025-07-11
17:20:00		 A call was received about a walker who was suffering from cramp and struggling to make
progress. He also has a leg injury. Progress was being made, but very slowly. A full team
callout was made, and Duddon and Furness MRT was asked for assistance due to slightly low
numbers on a warm evening. Once on scene an assessment was made, and it was agreed
that the walker could continue to make slow but steady progress. He managed to achieve the
descent to Brackenclose under the watchful eyes of a few team members. Others were
diverted to a second call of the evening. Our thanks to Duddon and Furness MRT and hope
the walker has recovered well.
84. Struggling to
Walk Corridor
Route		 2025-07-11
18:21:00		 A second call of the evening was received from Cumbria Police when a walker had fallen after
a long day on the fells and now was struggling to make progress. Again, they were moving
slowly, but with a risk that things worsened. The Team Leader made contact with the party
and asked them to make their way towards Lingmell Col, where team members were already
ascending towards the first callout. Once on scene, the walker was assessed and stoically
preferred to continue walkingwithout assistance. Again,under the watchful eyes of team

members, the walker was able to descend safely to Brackenclose. A good outcome. We wish the walker well and hope to see her back on the fells soon.

members, the walker was able to descend safely to Brackenclose. A good outcome. We wish
the walker well and hope to see her back on the fells soon.
85. Eskdale
Valley - Caller
reported
concern		 2025-07-12
01:48:00		 An alert through the night when the Team Leader was contacted by Cumbria Police about a
camper who had not been contactable for some time. A friend was concerned for his safety.
After understanding the camper’s plans, it was assessed in conjunction with the police and
decided that it was most likely that the camper was simply without any mobile signal in Upper
Eskdale. As such, it was not deemed necessary to deploy the team. This was confirmed the
following morning when the camper got in touch to say that all was well, after which the log
was closed.
86. Esk River
Waterfalls		 2025-07-13
15:22:00		 A call was received by North West Ambulance Service with a report that someone had been
seriously injured with multiple injuries after falling from steep ground in Upper Eskdale. A full
callout was initiated quickly, and Helimed 75 was also tasked by NWAS. With
communications difficult with patchy mobile signal, the team set off prepared for a serious
combined medical and technical rope rescue. However, the helicopter was able to land
relatively close to the location, and the crew was able to walk to safely access the casualty
and begin medical assessment and treatment. When the team arrived, they provided support
to carefully package into the team stretcher and then transfer to the helicopter. The casualty
was then flown to hospital for further treatment. We wish him a quick and speedy recovery.
Thanks to the crew of Helimed 75 for their support.
87. Ankle injury
Ritsons Force		 2025-07-14
13:50:00		 A call was received by Cumbria Police after a walker slipped on wet ground, injuring her ankle
with an audible crack and could not continue. The location was Ritson’s Force at Wasdale
Head. Family members in the group had called from the Wasdale Head Inn. The team was
called out and made their way to the scene, with a very short walk-in compared to normal.
The walker was assessed, and then the ankle was splinted before completing the short
stretcher carry to the roadhead. The walker was then transferred to one of the party’s car to
transport to hospital for further assessment and treatment. We wish the walker well, with a
quick recovery.
88. Welfare
check tourist
path		 2025-07-14
17:28:00		 A call was received by Cumbria Police from a concerned member of the public regarding
another walker who was struggling on the main tourist path on Brown Tongue. Six members
of Wasdale MRT were deployed, however no assistance was ultimately required, and the
walker made his own wayto the valley.
89. Scafell Pike -
Lone Female
Lost		 2025-07-16
09:46:00		 A call was received by Cumbria Police about a walker who was lost in the mist and did not
know her exact location. She also had fallen but was not injured seriously. The Team Leader
spoke with her by phone and guided her back to the summit, where she was able to meet
other walkers. The walker then safely made her way back to Wasdale Head on foot,
accompanied bythe others. Our thanks to the walkers that helped.
90. Male cramp
Scafell Pike		 2025-07-16
16:03:00		 A call was received regarding a walker suffering from severe cramp during descent from
Scafell Pike. Fifteen members of the Mountain Rescue Team were deployed and made
contact with the individual as he was walking off the hill independently, after resting and
recovering somewhat. After confirming that he was able to continue unaided, no further
assistance was necessary. The team monitored the situation and stood down once it was
established that no medical intervention or evacuation was required.
91. Scafell Pike -
Overdue Male		 2025-07-16
17:25:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police from a family member concerned about an overdue
walker on Scafell Pike. Thankfully, shortly afterwards, contact was able to be made,
confirmingthat all was well,and that no team response was required. Agood outcome.
92. Scafell Pike
Head & Facial
Injury		 2025-07-20
18:57:00		 A call was received from North West Ambulance Service about a walker who had fallen,
suffering head and facial injuries. Passing walkers had called it in and were supporting him.
A full callout was quickly initiated and team members made their way to the scene. On arrival,
shelter, warm clothing and a full medical assessment was made. Multiple injuries had been
sustained due to a fall at pace on a steep downhill section of the path. The walker was placed
into a vacuum mattress (full body splint), and then into the team stretcher. On arrival at
Brackenclose, a handover to a NWAS ambulance crew was made, before returning to base
and resetting the vehicles. We hope he recovers quickly from his injuries. We'd also like to
thank thepassingwalking groupfor their kindness and care for the lone walker.
93. Head Injury
Hollow Stones		 2025-07-21
12:28:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police about a lone walker who had taken a tumble fall high
on Scafell Pike. He had suffered a cut to his head, but had been bandaged up by passing well-
prepared walkers. The walker had continued to descend, but then felt very tired and light
headed, and had come to a stop at Hollow Stones. The team was called out and made their
way up the valley. As team members started to ascend, the better news was received that the
walker had recovered enough to start to descend again, with assistance from the other
walkers. As team members met the walker, an assessment was made, before he stoically
continued to descend all the way to Brackenclose. Kindly, one of the passing walkers then
took the walker to hospital for further assessment and treatment. We hope he recovers
quickly from his injuries. Again, some caring people in multiple walking groups made all the
difference to the lone walker who was having a bad day on the fell, and also saved us
significant time and effort. Thanks to all those who assisted.
94. Overbeck -
Child Head
Injury		 2025-07-24
14:53:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police about a young walker who had fallen, hitting her head
and resulting in a large lump and cut. The team was quickly mobilised, with Helimed 58 also
responding immediately. As usual, aviation fuel was quicker than foot power, and fortunately
the helicopter this time was able to land very close to the scene. After assessment, the walker
was airlifted to hospital for further care, with team members meeting up with the rest of the
walking party on their way out of the valley. We hope the walker makes a full recovery and is
back on the fells soon.
95. Funny Turn
Gable Beck		 2025-07-25
15:52:00		 A call was received about a walker who had tripped and hit her knee, and then was feeling
dizzy and confused. The Team Leader was able to talk to the informant, and the better news
was received that the walker had recovered, and that this appeared to be a faint. A limited
callout was made as a precaution and the team made their way up the valley to meet the
group and to assess the walker. Happily, all was well with the medical assessment, and so
theythen returned to base.
96. Couple
Camping near
Calf Cove		 2025-07-25
18:10:00		 We were called on Friday evening about two walkers who were concerned for their safety after
getting wet and cold. They were high up near Great End. The Team Leader made contact and
established that they were intending to camp, and were well prepared to recover their
situation. After discussing the options, the walkers were reassured and were able to use their
resources to rewarm themselves,with no callout required for the team.
97. Walker 7m
fall off Corridor
Route		 2025-07-26
13:25:00		 A busy day on Saturday commenced when a walker took a nasty 7m fall from steep ground
on the Corridor Route, picking up cuts to his arms and legs, plus possible rib fractures. The
tasking had quickly been transferred from Coniston MRT when the location was confirmed to
be in Wasdale. Helimed 58 was dispatched quickly, reached the walker first and began
medical treatment. However, they still needed help to extract the walker, so requested a
Coastguard helicopter with winching capability. Rescue 936 responded from Caernarfon and
performed a winch evacuation, before transferring to hospital. Thanks to both helicopter
crews for some excellent multi-agency teamwork to get the fastest possible help for the
walker. We hope he recoversquicklyfrom his injuries.
98. Injured Ankle
Corridor Route		 2025-07-26
14:37:00		 As callout 97 was in progress, a further call was taken from Cumbria Police. A walker had
fallen, and injured her ankle and was now unable to bear any weight. Th location was also on
the Corridor Route. The Team Leader was able to divert some team members to this location
and Remote Rescue Medical Technicians (RRMTs) made an assessment. After splinting the
ankle for stability and pain relief, the walker was transferred to the team stretcher. The very
long carry to Lingmell Col and then down to Brackenclose was made safely, before handing
over to the rest of her walking group for transfer to hospital. We wish the walker a quick
recoveryfrom her injury.
99. Head &
Facial Injury
Descent Great
Gable		 2025-07-26
15:37:00		 The third call of Saturday afternoon was from North West Ambulance Service. A walker had
taken a tumble fall on Great Gable when descending towards Beck Head. She had sustained
facial injuries. As many team members were already committed to a long stretcher carry from
the Corridor Route, Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team was asked to take ownership. They
duly obliged and dispatched team members from Honister Pass. Two Wasdale MRT team
members ascended from Gavel Neese and supported the initial assessment. Thankfully, the
walker was not seriously injured and was able to scramble down herself with the support of
a rope and Cockermouth team members. We wish her a quick recovery. Thanks to
Cockermouth MRT for their help,it's much appreciated.
100. Concern for
walker on broad
stand		 2025-07-28
13:19:00		 The hundredth 999 call of the year was received from Cumbria Police on Monday (on the
same date as last year!). Thankfully this was swiftly resolved without a need for 'boots on the
ground'. A walker on Scafell Pike was very concerned for the safety of another walker who
was descending on Broad Stand, apparently ill-equipped for a descent to Mickledore. About
30 minutes later, the walker seemed to have realised his error and had successfully
scrambled back towards Scafell summit. The Team Leader was relieved to hear this, and
stood the team down.
101. Twisted
ankle hollow
stones		 2025-07-31
17:08:00		 A call from Cumbria Police was received regarding a male with a twisted ankle at Hollow
Stones. The Team Leader made contact and confirmed the casualty was able to descend
slowly with self-administered pain relief. A passer-by kindly loaned walking poles, and the
walker’s location was tracked every 30 minutes via PhoneFind. No team deployment was
required on this occasion, and we hope the ankle recovers quickly. Team leader tracked
progress every 30 minutes with the male clicking the link to show his progress. Male
successfullymade it down without the need for MRT.
102. Concern for
male that was
overdue		 2025-08-01
21:04:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the team after a parent became concerned that their son had not
returned made contact as expected from a wild camping trip on Scafell Pike.
The Team Leader liaised with police to initiate an investigation. Thankfully, during the
process, the missing walker phoned to confirm he was safe and well. The team was stood
down with no further action required.
103. Scafell Pike
- Couple Split &
1 overdue		 2025-08-07
18:39:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the team after a couple became separated during their walk on
Scafell Pike. One had returned to the car, but the other walker could not be found and was
unreachable by mobile phone. However, as investigation was ongoing the missing individual
returned safe and well. The team was stood down without deployment.
104. Male
walker with
injured dog		 2025-08-09
21:27:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police last night about a lone walker who was exhausted
and starting to fall around on steep ground, about half way down from Scafell summit. He
had been carrying his 35 kg Husky, Prince, since the summit of Slight Side after a long day on
the fells. Prince had cut his paws and could not continue. When his owner finally realised that
he would not make it down to the valley floor without hurting either himself or Prince, he
wisely called for help. The Team Leader called the team out and they made their way towards
Burnmoor Tarn, with the walker still descending slowly. Once on scene Prince was as good
as gold and happily accepted the stretcher carry back to Brackenclose, along with much
attention from everyone present. We hope Prince’s paws heal quickly, and his owner is none
the worse for wear after his efforts toget down on his own.
105. Police
Assist, Scafell
Pike		 2025-08-15
15:44:00		 The team was tasked by Cumbria Police to support them for a search on Scafell Pike. The
team was deployed but after some time ascending in very warm conditions the walker was
believed to have descended via a different route to Wasdale Head. As such, all parties were
stood down and returned to base.
106. Whistles
heard -
Hardknott Pass		 2025-08-16
00:00:00		 The informant to Cumbria Police reported hearing whistles in the Hardknott Pass area. The
Team Leader investigated but found insufficient information to justify a team deployment.
The situation was monitored and closed without further action with agreement from the
police. A false alarm withgood intent.
107. Screes -
Boat		 2025-08-16
18:03:00		 Cumbria Police requested team assistance after a 30kg dog refused to move on the
Wastwater Screes. The Team Leader deployed a boat team and they successfully rescued
the dog along with two walkers. All were safely returned to the landing area and continued
their walk back to their campsite.
108. Scafell - 2
males lost		 2025-08-19
17:53:00		 The Team Leader was called by Cumbria Police yesterday regarding two walkers who were
lost on Scafell in the cloud. He was able to speak directly with them and provided directions
toguide them safelyoff the hill. Happily,no further team deployment was required.
109. Corridor
route - Lost		 2025-08-21
19:44:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the team regarding a lone walker who was lost and concerned for
her safety on steep ground close to the Corridor Route. The team was deployed to locate and
assist. The walker was found in the location expected, checked over and then safely escorted
down to Wasdale Head.
110. Eskdale - 2
lost female		 2025-08-21
20:40:00		 With incident No.109 in progress, a further call was received, this time from North West
Ambulance Service via the iPhone satellite emergency centre. Two walkers were lost in Upper
Eskdale. The Team Leader investigated and traced their last known location. The initial
search yielded no result, but they were found safe and well at a nearby hostelry having
managed to descend safely on their own. With a good outcome confirmed the team stood
down and returned to base.
111. Scafell Pike
- Walker
struggling		 2025-08-23
22:23:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the team regarding a walker struggling with his descent on Scafell
Pike. However, others in his group were able to provide food, water, and encouragement and
it was declared that support from the team was no longer required.
112. Green Hole
- Broken Toe &
Finger		 2025-08-24
18:09:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police about a walker with a broken toe, struggling to walk
out from Green Hole. She was accompanied by another person and they were advised by the
iPhone SOS service to stay in their location. The Team Leader deployed members with warm
clothing, shelter and stretcher equipment to account for the worst case scenario. The
walkers were located, assessed and treated, and then able to walk slowly out through
Moasdale to the road. Our kind neighbours at Langdale Ambleside MRT then transported
them back to Langdale where theywere based.
113. Wastwater-
Incident on the
water		 2025-08-25
15:40:00		 Last Bank Holiday Monday, we received a call from Cumbria Police about people potentially
lost in the water at Wast Water requiring assistance. They had received multiple calls
reporting similar things about paddle boarders in distress. Further information suggested
that one person was unaccounted for. Multiple emergency services were activated
immediately, including ourselves. WMRT team members close by responded and were on
scene shortly after a police officer arrived. Initially it appeared that all people were accounted
for, but two had not returned to their family and information was anecdotal, so their safety
was not assumed. As more team members and emergency services arrived, a MRT party was
tasked with a rapid search along the shoreline to quickly relieve the high anxiety being
experienced by the family. They were thankfully stood down when the police officer was
flagged down as he drove along the road, to alert him to the two missing people resting on the
shore. They were safe and well and were returned to their family. Three people in total were
checked over by the awaiting ambulance crew and discharged at the scene. What remained
was a reassurance check of the lake shoreline with our boat and to recover three missing
paddle boards (thus avoiding further false alarms later). No other persons were found in need
of help and the paddleboards were returned to the very grateful and humble family group.
After the urgent response had been dealt with, it was possible to get a better understanding
of what had occurred. Three paddle boarders had got into trouble when gusty winds blew
them quickly away from the shore. They then all fell from their boards in attempt to recover
themselves and each other. None of the paddle boarders had leashes to keep them attached
in this event, so they were quickly separated once they fell in. One of the paddle boarders did
not have a buoyancy aid and was rescued by other boarders. The two other young people did
have buoyancy aids and were able to swim a significant distance to safety. We were hugely
grateful that this was a good outcome, with the family group very aware and humbled by the
near misses that were veryobvious to them. Thankyou to all that helped in this incident.
114. Wastwater
- Car off the
road		 2025-08-26
03:00:00		 A call was received from NWAS requesting assistance for a car stuck off the roadside near
Wast Water. As further investigation, the team was not deployed as this is not within the
scope of the team. A local recoverycompanyultimatelyattended and assisted the family.
115. Scafell Pike
- 8 Lost		 2025-08-29
23:56:00		 A busy weekend started on Friday evening when Cumbria Police reported a group of eight
walkers who were lost, wet, cold, and tired on Scafell Pike. The Team Leader contacted them
and guided them off the hill remotely after a PhoneFind to determine their exact location. All
returned safelyto their vehicle without MRT deployment. Agood outcome.
116. Lingmell
Col - Head & Leg
Injury		 2025-08-30
17:40:00		 A call was received from Cumbria Police regarding a male walker with head and leg injuries
near Lingmell Col. The team was deployed quickly, however located the casualty much lower
down than expected. Thankfully his injuries were superficial, caused by being blown over in
strongwind. The walker descended unaided and was advised to seek hospital evaluation.
117. Lingmell
Col - Lost		 2025-08-30
18:09:00		 With incident 116 ongoing, Cumbria Police reported two walkers lost whilst descending
Scafell Pike. The Team Leader investigated and PhoneFind located them below Lingmell Col.
The Team Leader provided directions back to the path, and from they walked off
independently. No further action from the team was required.
118. Scafell Pike
- Dad/Son
Overdue		 2025-08-30
20:58:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the team regarding a father and son overdue from a walk up Scafell
Pike. Their hotel had raised concern based on their planned route and return time. Team
Leaders began investigation and later it was confirmed the pair had arrived safely at a YHA in
a different valley after a navigational error. No deployment was required and a good outcome,
in what could have turned into a large scale search.
119. Ankle Injury
Stream Crossing		 2025-08-31
14:08:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police on Sunday to assist a walker who had slipped and
heard a crack in her ankle. It was too painful to continue. A full callout was swiftly initiated,
with Helimed 08 also deploying due to the potentially serious complications described. Once
on scene the walker was assessed and given some strong pain relief. There was a team effort
between Helimed and MRT team members to realign the likely dislocated ankle and relieve
pain further. A routine stretcher carry was completed down to Brackenclose, before a
handover and a flight to hospital. Thanks the the Helimed 08 crew and we wish the walker a
very quick recovery.
120. Lost below
Pike Summit		 2025-08-31
15:30:00		 As incident 119 was ongoing, a further call was received by Cumbria Police. Two walkers were
lost below the summit of Scafell Pike. Using PhoneFind, the Team Leader located them and
guided them back to the summit. Once they rejoined the main path and met up with other
walkers the log was closed with no further action required from the team members already
on the hill.
121. 3 Lost
walkers
Mickledore		 2025-09-01
00:17:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the team regarding three walkers who were lost and stuck on
Scafell Pike at Mickledore. The Team Leader attempted to talk them off the hill, but they were
unable to move. The group sheltered in the stretcher box while waiting for team members to
arrive. Once located and checked over, all three walked off the hill safely back down to the
valleyfloor.
122. Lost Dore
Head		 2025-09-04
21:12:00		 Cumbria Police reported a male walker lost and separated from his friend near Dore Head.
The Team Leader was unable to make contact, so team members were deployed to search
all routes to the last known location. Both individuals were found relatively quickly and
walked off the hill without incident. It was also a good chance to give our thermal imaging
equipment a workout in real conditions.
123. Crag fast
Greencove
Wyke Scafell		 2025-09-06
04:33:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the Team Leader regarding two walkers who were reporting
themselves crag fast on steep ground on the Greencove Wyke side of Scafell. Initial contact
by mobile phone was attempted but was unsuccessful, so a full team callout was made. A
Coastguard helicopter was also requested, and Rescue 936 from Caernarfon responded.
Additional support was also requested from Duddon and Furness MRT due to slightly low
numbers. As the teams prepared to deploy with rope rescue equipment, the helicopter was
able to located the pair and winch them to safety. They then transferred them to
Brackenclose to meet up with team members. Huge thanks to the helicopter crew for saving
us considerable effort and time, thus leaving us more resilient for further call outs later in the
day.
124. Alert
overdue walkers		 2025-09-06
20:38:00		 Cumbria Police raised an alert to the Team Leader for overdue walkers on Scafell Pike. Whilst
he began investigating, contact was made with the party, who confirmed they were now off
the fell and makingtheir wayhome. No team deployment was required.
125. Wastwater
- Assistance
requested		 2025-09-10
14:20:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police regarding two walkers stuck on a rocky and slippery
route on the Screes. They were concerned for their safety. PhoneFind was initiated and
confirmed their location near Low Adam Crag. After reassurance and guidance from the
Team Leader,thepair continued safelyto Wasdale Head,with no team deployment required.
126. Ankle injury
Black Sail Pass		 2025-09-11
13:58:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the team regarding a walker with a suspected broken ankle just
beyond the top of Black Sail Pass. Her son made the call from Wasdale Head Inn and
remained there to guide team members to the location. The walker was located
approximately 100m beyond the col, assessed, and treated with splinting and pain relief. She
was stretchered down to Wasdale Head Inn, where her husband met her for onward transport
to hospital and further treatment. We wish the walker a very swift recovery from her injury.
And hope she is back on the fells soon.
127. Hardknott -
Fell off bike		 2025-09-21
12:23:00		 The team was called by North West Ambulance Service regarding a cyclist who had come off
his bike while descending Hardknott Pass, reportedly sustaining head injuries. A local team
member was deployedquicklyto assess. The cyclist was found standingand in a location
accessible to ambulance services. As such the team was stood down as no further
assistance was needed. We hope the cyclist has recoveredquickly.
128. Cramp -
Scafell Pike		 2025-09-21
17:34:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the team MRT about a male walker near the summit of Scafell Pike,
reportedly unable to continue due to cramp. A PhoneFind was successful to obtain an
accurate location, and the party began to descend with improving progress. Five team
members deployed from Brackenclose and met the walker approximately 200m above the
stream crossing. He was assessed and encouraged to continue walking. A stretcher party
was on standby at Brackenclose in case the situation worsened, which happily it did not.
During the response, three additional team members were dispatched to investigate a
separate report of another walker in difficulty near Hollow Stones (logged separately as
Incident 129).
129. Ankle injury
Hollow Stones		 2025-09-21
19:07:00		 During callout 128, a passing walker reported another walker struggling to descend from the
Hollow Stones area after rolling her ankle. Three MRT members already deployed on the hill
were diverted to assess. On arrival, the casualty reported a painful ankle after ‘rolling’ it on
the descent. Some pain relief was administered, and after assessment, she opted to
continue walking. She made slow but steady progress downhill under supervision, and
eventually made it safely down to the valley floor. We hope she recovers quickly from the
injury.
130. LAMRT
search Assist		 2025-09-23
15:59:00		 The Team Leader received a request from Langdale Ambleside MRT regarding a possible
search for an overdue walker. The team was placed on standby while initial investigations
were carried out. Thankfully, the missing individual was later located safe and well in another
valleywith no deployment required. Agood outcome.
131. Scafell Pike
- Lost		 2025-09-26
09:51:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the Team Leader via the iPhone SOS emergency service regarding
two walkers lost whilst descending from Scafell Pike. Although their location was identified,
it was not possible to make direct contact. The iPhone emergency centre was asked to guide
them back onto the path. The pair later encountered a member of the public who assisted
them down safely. No injuries reported and no team deployment was required.
132. Dent/Flat
fell - Lost doing
C2C		 2025-09-26
14:20:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police regarding a walker who had become lost on the Coast
to Coast route. The call came in via a roaming signal, preventing initial location tracking. A
follow-up message from the iPhone emergency centre placed her between Flat Fell and Dent.
Upon contact, she confirmed she had navigated back to a known location herself. No injuries
reported and no team deployment required.
133. Multiple
Injuries Red Gill		 2025-09-27
13:09:00		 The team was called last Saturday about a walker who had taken a long tumble fall on steep
and dangerous ground whilst trying to scramble towards Lords Rake. He was reported to have
multiple injuries and in significant pain. A full team callout was initiated and Helimed 08 self-
tasked to see if they could help. However, they were unable to access the walker safely. As
the exact location became clearer a Coastguard helicopter with winching capability was
requested and Rescue 936 from Caernarfon was dispatched. With numbers a little low due
to many team members unavailable at an annual team training event, and with the likelihood
of a difficult medical situation alongside a technical rope rescue, additional support from
Duddon and Furness MRT was also requested. Unfortunately weather conditions did not
allow a direct winch by Rescue 936, so they kindly offered to provide multiple lifts of team
members and heavy crag rescue equipment as high as possible. Once on scene a medical
assessment was made and strong pain relief given to make the walker more comfortable. He
was then packaged carefully into a vacuum mattress (full body splint) and the team stretcher.
With conditions still preventing a helicopter winch, the evacuation had to be achieved by a
stretcher lower of 150m down a steep gully using approximately 400m metres of rope. Once
safely back down to relatively level ground at Hollow Stones, Rescue 936 once again
attempted to evacuate, only to be thwarted by the descending cloud base and arriving rain.
A stretcher carry was made safely down to Brackenclose, and the walker finally transferred
into the care of a NWAS land ambulance crew for onward assessment and treatment at
hospital. Thanks to the crew of Rescue 936, Duddon and Furness MRT, Helimed 08 and NWAS
for their help. A great team effort. We wish the walker a quick recovery and hope he is back
on the fells soon.
134. 80 Year Old
- Scafell Pike		 2025-09-30
18:32:00		 The team was called on Tuesday evening by North West Ambulance Service regarding a male
walker who was unable to continue his descent from Scafell Pike due to exhaustion and
cramp, and possibly also taken some minor falls. The initial location was close to the summit
with significant wind chill. His friend had descended to find help. A full team callout was
made but with the now lone and inexperienced walker possibly on the move in misty
conditions there was a risk of a wrong turn. However, he was found by ascending team
members on the main tourist path on Brown Tongue. He was assessed by Remote Rescue
Medical Technicians and then stretchered down to safety. A good outcome. We hope he
makes aquick recovery.
135. Group of 4
lost coming off
Scafell Pike		 2025-10-02
01:41:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the Team Leader regarding a group of four walkers lost while
descending from Scafell Pike. The Team Leader investigated and determined via that they
were close to Gavel Neese. She provided guidance, and the group successfully navigated
back to their vehiclejust after 4am,after which the logwas closed.
136. Pair of
Walkers		 2025-10-02
16:32:00		 A brief alert from Cumbria Police when a walker at Green Gable reported that his walking
partner was overdue returningfrom aplanned detour upto Great Gable. He was concerned
separated -
Great Gable		 for his safety. After brief contact and clarification, it was confirmed that his friend had been
back in touch and that no assistance was required.
137. Frightened
Walkers - Kirk
Fell Nose		 2025-10-16
12:02:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the team regarding a walker who was struggling with the terrain on
Kirk Fell Nose and had become panicked. The Team Leader was able to make contact by
phone, provided reassurance, and successfully talked her through walking back down
independently. Agood outcome and no MRT deployment required.
138. Scafell Pike
navigation error		 2025-10-18
15:50:00		 The Team Leader was called by Cumbria Police. The informant had reported that their friends
had descended the wrong side of Scafell Pike and ended up at Wast Water. After
investigating, it was established that all members of the party were safe and well and the only
problem was logistics,so the team was stood down and the logclosed.
139. Lone
walker lost top
of Piers Gill		 2025-10-19
17:51:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police regarding a lone walker lost near the top of Piers Gill
on the East side of Lingmell Col. With communications difficult preventing a ‘talk off’, the
team was deployed. The walker and her dog were located in the position expected. Thankfully
both were uninjured and only moderately cold, allowing an escorted walk back down the
Brackenclose. Agood outcome.
140. 2
casualties
injured below
Stand Crag		 2025-10-26
16:49:00		 Cumbria Police received a 999 call from a party of three walkers located below Stand Crag.
A walker had sustained an ankle injury and was unable to continue. With a poor mobile signal
making communications difficult direct with the walking party, a full callout was made. Once
on scene the walker was assessed and treated, however it was discovered that a second
member of the group had also sustained knee and back injuries and was also determined to
be unable to walk off safely. More resources were needed and our friends at Duddon and
Furness MRT responded to help with the second stretcher carry, with team shelters, extra
layers and heat blankets being used to keep warm during the wait. Both walkers were treated
and then packaged into team stretchers for the carry down some steep ground back to the
valley floor. They were handed over to the waiting ambulance crew. A long, complex rescue,
completed successfully in cold and somewhat unpleasant conditions at times. Thanks to
Duddon and Furnesss MRT. We hope both walkers are doing well and recover from their
injuriesquickly.
141. Walker
seeking route
advice		 2025-10-30
16:16:00		 Cumbria Police contacted the Team Leader regarding a walker who was lost and seeking
route advice near Lingmell Col. While attempts were made to establish contact, the police
confirmed that the walker had encountered an experienced walker who safely led them off
the hill. A swift outcome with no MRT deployment required.
142. Overdue
Walker Green
How		 2025-10-31
16:22:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police after a call from a concerned family member
reporting a walker who overdue and lost in fog near Green How. The Team Leader initiated an
investigation and made contact with the walker. Due to fading daylight, low phone battery,
and no head torch, a limited team was mobilised. However, the walker managed to make his
wayoff the hill independentlyand the team was stood down en route.
143. Pair Lost
below Broad
Crag Tarn		 2025-11-02
16:18:00		 Cumbria Police received a call from a family member reporting that two walkers had become
separated from their group while descending Scafell Pike and were now lost below Broad
Crag Tarn. The Team Leader made contact and identified their location via PhoneFind. An
attempt was made to talk them back up and down to Wasdale, but worsening weather
conditions made this impractical. A small team was deployed and successfully escorted the
pair back down to eventuallyrejoin their family.
144. Lost 3
Peaker Top of
Pikes Crag		 2025-11-02
21:36:00		 The team was called by Cumbria Police about a walker who had become lost while
descending from the summit of Scafell Pike. He reported being on steep ground. Using
PhoneFinds, the Team Leader was able to identify his location and guide him back to the main
path. Once re-located on the path, the walker was able to make his own way down without
further assistance. Agood outcome.
145. High Water
Stream Crossing		 2025-11-04
12:47:00		 A short alert was quickly resolved after a walker was concerned for another walker and his
two dogs who was the high side of Lingmell Gill which looked to be unpassable due to the
heavy rainfall. However the walker was able to communicate his intentions to re-ascend to a
higher elevation, cross the gill and take an alternative route down. With no assistance
required,the logwas closed.
146. Scafell Pike
reports of
flashing lights		 2025-11-10
19:23:00		 Call from Cumbria Police from a report from a member of public about flashing lights noted
on Scafell Pike Summit. T/L investigated and due to location of informant and suspected
these were just walkers, good phone signal in that area also, T/L spoke with CUMPOL and
agreed no action needed.

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Trustees' report and financial statements

for the year ended 30 September 2025

Charity number: 1170178

robinson+co

Chartered Accountants

Gosforth

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Contents

Page
Legal and administrative information 1
Trustees' report 2 - 3
Independent examiners' report 4
Statement of financial activities 5
Balance sheet 6
Cash flow statement 7
Notes to the financial statements 8 - 15

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Legal and administrative information

Charity number 1170178
Business address Wasdale Mountain Rescue
Gosforth
Seascale
CA20 1BS
Trustees J R Bamforth
P Kirby
P J Hall Resigned 17 November 2025
J Hryb Resigned 17 November 2025
I J Davidson
M Smith
L Tunstall
J Noake
R Stalker
A T Cramp Appointed 17 November 2025
J Lynch Appointed 17 November 2025
Accountants robinson+co
The Old Forge
Beck Place
Gosforth
Seascale
CA20 1AT
Bankers HSBC Bank Plc
3 Pow Street
Workington
CA14 3AH

Page 1

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Report of the trustees for the year ended 30 September 2025

The trustees present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2025. The trustees who served during the year and up to the date of this report are set out on page 1.

Structure, governance and management

Governing document

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team was registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), registered charity number 1170178, on 15 November 2016. The assets, liabilities and undertakings of the unincorporated charity Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team (Charity number 1020136) were transferred to the CIO on 30 September 2017, with the CIO then becoming operational from 1 October 2017.

Trustees

The aim is to maintain a trustee board with a range of skills which will be useful to the organisation. New trustees are taken through an induction procedure.

Key management personnel remuneration

The Trustees consider the Committee as comprising the key management personnel of the charity in charge of directing and controlling the charity and running and operating the charity on a day to day basis. All trustees give of their time freely and no trustee remuneration was paid in the year.

Objectives and activities

The charitable objects are:

To save life and alleviate distress primarily in upland or mountainous areas.

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team provides a search and rescue service on the mountains and off road locations in the Wasdale and Eskdale valleys of West Cumbria and surrounding areas. The Team typically handles over 100 calls for assistance a year.

Further information can be found at www.wmrt.org.uk.

Public benefit

The trustees have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the charity's aims and objectives and in planning future activities. In particular, the trustees consider how planned activities will contribute to the aims and objectives they have set.

Achievements and performance

Achievements and performance are detailed in the Annual Report as presented at the Annual General Meeting.

Financial review

At the balance sheet date the CIO held £1,439,862 on unrestricted funds (2024: £1,381,412) and £21,926 on restricted funds (2024: £21,926), a satisfactory position.

A detailed review is provided in the Treasurer's Report within the Annual report as presented at the Annual General meeting.

Risk Management

The trustees have assessed the major strategic, business and operational risks to which the CIO is exposed. They are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate the exposure to these risks.

Page 2

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Report of the trustees for the year ended 30 September 2025

Plans for future periods

One of the team's ongoing challenges is recruitment of new members and considerable effort is being directed in this area.

Statement of trustees' responsibilities

The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that year. In preparing these financial statements the trustees are required to:

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

On behalf of the board

M Smith Trustee

Page 3

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Independent examiner's report to the trustees on the unaudited financial statements of Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team.

I report on the accounts of Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team for the year ended 30 September 2025 set out on pages 5 to 15.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and independent examiner

As the charity's trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts, you consider that the audit requirement of section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) does not apply and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act; to follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act; and to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of independent examiner's statement

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

...........................................................

Jason Spires FCA DChA

Independent examiner robinson+co Chartered Accountants

The Old Forge Beck Place Gosforth, Seascale CA20 1AT

Page 4

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Statement of financial activities

For the year ended 30 September 2025

Unrestricted Unrestricted Restricted 2025 2024
funds funds Total Total
Notes £ £ £ £
Income
Voluntary income 2 139,632 - 139,632 143,375
Incoming resources from charitable activities 3 - 23,981 23,981 122,080
Income from other trading activities:
Activities for generating funds 4 7,687 - 7,687 10,427
Investment income 5 12,449 - 12,449 10,452
Total income 159,768 23,981 183,749 286,334
Expenditure
Charitable activities 6 125,299 - 125,299 148,642
Total expenditure 125,299 - 125,299 148,642
Net income/(expenditure)
before transfers 34,469 23,981 58,450 137,692
Transfer between funds 23,981 )
(23,981		 - -
Net income/(expenditure)
for the year 58,450 - 58,450 137,692
Total funds brought forward 1,381,412 21,926 1,403,338 1,265,646
Total funds carried forward 1,439,862 21,926 1,461,788 1,403,338

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

The notes on pages 8 to 15 form an integral part of these financial statements.

Page 5

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Balance sheet as at 30 September 2025

Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
9
Current assets
Debtors
10
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling
due within one year
11
Net current assets
Net assets
Funds
12
Restricted income funds
Unrestricted income funds
Total funds		 2025
£
£
823,504
28,552
620,647
649,199
)
(10,915
638,284
1,461,788
21,926
1,439,862
1,461,788		 2024
£
£
823,835
25,710
562,947
588,657
)
(9,154
579,503
1,403,338
21,926
1,381,412
1,403,338

The financial statements were approved by the trustees on and signed on its behalf by

M Smith Trustee

The notes on pages 8 to 15 form an integral part of these financial statements.

Page 6

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Cash flow statement

for the year ended 30 September 2025

Notes
Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities
15
Cash flows from investing activities
Interest and dividends
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents brought forward
Cash and cash equivalents carried forward		 2025
£
74,055
12,449
)
(28,804
)
(16,355
57,700
562,947
620,647		 2024
£
171,557
10,452
)
(41,111
)
(30,659
140,898
422,049
562,947

The notes on pages 8 to 15 form an integral part of these financial statements.

Page 7

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Notes to financial statements

for the year ended 30 September 2025

1. Accounting policies

The principal accounting policies are summarised below. The accounting policies have been applied consistently throughout the year and the preceding year.

1.1. Basis of accounting

The financial statements are prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s) to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued on 16 July 2014 and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

The trustees consider that there are currently no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue as a going concern.

The financial statements are prepared in UK sterling, which is the functional currency of the entity.

1.2. Income

All income is included in the statement of financial activities when the charity is entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following specific policies are applied to particular categories of income:

Voluntary income is received by way of grants, donations and gifts and is included in full in the statement of financial activities when receivable. Grants where entitlement is not conditional on the delivery of a specific performance by the charity, are recognised when the charity becomes unconditionally entitled to the grant.

Donated services and facilities are included at the value to the charity where this can be quantified. The value of services provided by volunteers has not been included.

Gifts donated for resale are included as income within activities for generating funds when they are sold.

Grants, including grants for the purchase of fixed assets, are recognised in full in the statement of financial activities in the year in which they are receivable.

Income from the charity shop is included in the year in which it is receivable.

Income from investments is included in the year in which it is receivable.

Legacies are included when the charity is advised by the personal representative of an estate that payment will be made or property transferred and the amount involved can be quantified.

Page 8

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Notes to financial statements

for the year ended 30 September 2025

1.3. Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less residual value of each asset over its expected useful life, as follows:

Land and buildings are maintained to a high standard and have a high residual value and as such are not depreciated. The trustees have carried out an impairment review and are satisfied that there is no impairment to these assets.

2. Donations and legacies

Donations and legacies
Unrestricted
funds
£
Donations
88,445
Legacies
51,187
139,632		 2025
Total
£
88,445
51,187
139,632		 2024
Total
£
135,046
8,329
143,375

In 2024 all of the income from donations and legacies was attributable to unrestricted income funds.

3. Incoming resources from charitable activities

Incoming resources from charitable activities
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
£
£
Grants
-
23,981
-
23,981		 2025
Total
£
23,981
23,981		 2024
Total
£
122,080
122,080

In 2024 grants totalling £109,684 were allocated to restricted income funds, with the remainder allocated to unreastriced income funds.

4. Activities for generating funds

Activities for generating funds
Unrestricted
funds
£
Shop income
3,816
Fundraising events
3,871
7,687		 2025
Total
£
3,816
3,871
7,687		 2024
Total
£
254
10,173
10,427

In 2024 all of the income from activities for generating funds was attributable to unrestricted income funds.

Page 9

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Notes to financial statements

for the year ended 30 September 2025

5. Investment income

Investment income
Unrestricted
funds
£
Bank interest receivable
12,449
12,449		 2025
Total
£
12,449
12,449		 2024
Total
£
10,452
10,452

In 2024 all of the investment income was attributable to unrestricted income funds.

6. Costs of charitable activities - by fund type

Costs of charitable activities - by fund type
Unrestricted
funds
£
Mountain Rescue
125,299
125,299		 2025
Total
£
125,299
125,299		 2024
Total
£
148,642
148,642

In 2024 all of the costs of the charitable activities were attributable to unrestricted funds.

7. Costs of charitable activities - by activity

Costs of charitable activities - by activity
Activities
undertaken
directly
£
Mountain Rescue
125,299
125,299		 2025
Total
£
125,299
125,299		 2024
Total
£
148,642
148,642

8. Employees

No salaries or wages have been paid to employees, including the trustees, during the year.

Trustees are not remunerated. Expenses of £1,145 (2024 : £1,485) were reimbursed to 8 trustees for directly incurred travel costs and clothing allowances.

Page 10

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Notes to financial statements

for the year ended 30 September 2025

9.
Tangible fixed assets
Cost
At 1 October 2024
Additions
At 30 September 2025
Depreciation
At 1 October 2024
Charge for the year
At 30 September 2025
Net book values
At 30 September 2025
At 30 September 2024
10.
Debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
11.
Creditors: amounts falling due
within one year
Trade creditors		 Land and
Fixtures,
buildings fittings and
freehold
equipment
£
£
676,170
385,459
-
28,804
676,170
414,263
-
276,825
-
23,964
-
300,789
676,170
113,474
676,170
108,634		 Motor
vehicles
Total
£
£
155,547
1,217,176
-
28,804
155,547
1,245,980
116,516
393,341
5,171
29,135
121,687
422,476
33,860
823,504
39,031
823,835
2025
2024
£
£
27,552
25,710
1,000
-
28,552
25,710
2025
2024
£
£
10,915
9,154		 Motor
vehicles
Total
£
£
155,547
1,217,176
-
28,804
155,547
1,245,980
116,516
393,341
5,171
29,135
121,687
422,476
33,860
823,504
39,031
823,835
2025
2024
£
£
27,552
25,710
1,000
-
28,552
25,710
2025
2024
£
£
10,915
9,154
393,341
29,135
422,476
823,504
823,835
2024
£
25,710
-
25,710
2024
£
9,154

Page 11

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Notes to financial statements

for the year ended 30 September 2025

12. Analysis of net assets between funds

Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds
£ £ £
Fund balances at 30 September 2025 as represented by:
Tangible fixed assets 823,504 - 823,504
Current assets 627,273 21,926 649,199
Current liabilities )
(10,915		 - )
(10,915
1,439,862 21,926 1,461,788
Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds
£ £ £
Fund balances at 30 September 2024 as represented by:
Tangible fixed assets 823,835 - 823,835
Current assets 566,731 21,926 588,657
Current liabilities )
(9,154		 - )
(9,154
1,381,412 21,926 1,403,338

Page 12

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Notes to financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2025

13. Analysis of movements in unrestricted funds

At
1 October
2024

£
General reserve
1,226,937
Vehicle reserve
134,475
Contingencies reserve
20,000
1,381,412		 Incoming
resources

£
159,768
-
-
159,768		 Outgoing
resources
£
)
(125,299
-
-
)
(125,299		 At
30 September
Transfers
2025
£
£
14,166
1,275,572
9,815
144,290
-
20,000
23,981
1,439,862

Analysis of movements in unrestricted funds - previous year

At
1 October
2023

£
General reserve
1,132,534
Vehicle reserve
113,112
Contingencies reserve
20,000
1,265,646		 Incoming
resources

£
176,650
-
-
176,650		 Outgoing
resources
£
)
(148,642
-
-
)
(148,642		 At
30 September
Transfers
2024
£
£
66,395
1,226,937
21,363
134,475
-
20,000
87,758
1,381,412

Purposes of unrestricted funds

The charity's unrestricted funds can be used with the approval of the board of trustees to fund any expenditure which falls within the charity's.

The level of the general reserve should be at least the equivelant of two years annual income, the trustees are satified this has been met.

The trustees have designated £144,290 (2024 : £134,475) as a vehicle reserve, in order to provide ready cash for the replacement of the vehicles and boat when required. The reserve is maintained based on a conservative estimate of 15% of the replacement cost of each vehicle multiplied by the number of years service it has done, up to the full replacement cost.

The trustees have designated £20,000 as a contingencies reserve, in order to make provision for catastrophic mechanical failure of a vehicle estimated at £15,000 and for a catastrophic communications failure at £5,000.

Page 13

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Notes to financial statements

for the year ended 30 September 2025

14. Analysis of movements in restricted funds

At
1 October
2024

£
Restricted funds
21,926
21,926
Analysis of movements in restricted funds - previous year
At
1 October
2023

£
Restricted funds
-
-		 Incoming
resources
£
23,981
23,981
Incoming
resources
£
109,684
109,684		 At
30 September
Transfers
2025
£
£
)
(23,981
21,926
)
(23,981
21,926
At
30 September
Transfers
2024
£
£
)
(87,758
21,926
)
(87,758
21,926		 At
30 September
Transfers
2025
£
£
)
(23,981
21,926
)
(23,981
21,926
At
30 September
Transfers
2024
£
£
)
(87,758
21,926
)
(87,758
21,926
21,926

Purposes of restricted funds

the value of the asset is transferred to unresticted funds.

15. Gross cash flows

Net movements in funds
Deduct interest and dividend income shown in investing activities
Add back depreciation and profit/loss on disposal
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
Increase/(decrease) in creditors		 2025
£
58,450
)
(12,449
29,135
)
(2,842
1,761
74,055		 2024
£
137,692
)
(10,452
28,523
14,327
1,467
171,557

Page 14

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Notes to financial statements

for the year ended 30 September 2025

16. Analysis of changes in net funds

Cash at bank and in hand
Net funds		 Opening
balance
£
562,947
562,947		 Cash
flows
£
57,700
57,700		 Closing
balance
£
620,647
620,647

Page 15

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

The following pages do not form part of the statutory accounts.

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Detailed statement of financial activities

For the year ended 30 September 2025

2025 2024
£ £ £ £
Income
Income from generating funds:
Voluntary income
Donations 88,445 135,046
Legacies 51,187 8,329
139,632 143,375
Activities for generating funds
Shop income 3,816 254
Fundraising events 3,871 10,173
7,687 10,427
Investment income
Bank interest receivable 12,449 10,452
12,449 10,452
Total income from generating funds 159,768 164,254
Incoming resources from charitable activities
Grants 23,981 122,080
23,981 122,080
Total income 183,749 286,334

Page 17

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Detailed statement of financial activities

For the year ended 30 September 2025

Charitable activities
Mountain Rescue
Activities undertaken directly
Training costs
Rates
Electricity
Maintenance
Equipment
Insurance
Sundry headquarter expenses
Vehicle running expenses
Officers' expenses
Marine insurance
Telephone
Printing and stationery
Depreciation
Sundry
Boot allowance
Clothing allowance
Donations
Other costs
Mountain Rescue total expenditure
Total charitable activity expenditure
Net income/(expenditure) for the year		 2025
£
12,463
181
3,317
6,720
22,776
4,870
9,182
5,846
6,905
719
4,308
791
29,135
10,771
1,775
5,540
-
-
125,299
125,299
125,299
58,450		 2024
£
9,129
192
5,804
6,920
25,329
4,980
6,998
8,441
1,567
681
2,959
800
28,523
6,311
1,467
13,544
25,000
)
(3
148,642
148,642
148,642
137,692		 2024
£
9,129
192
5,804
6,920
25,329
4,980
6,998
8,441
1,567
681
2,959
800
28,523
6,311
1,467
13,544
25,000
)
(3
148,642
148,642
148,642
137,692
148,642
148,642
137,692

Page 18