Incidents

The Team were called to assist a 60 year old female from St. Albans, who slipped on a muddy footpath and suffered a fracture of the lower leg.

The Team went to the assistance of a 79 year old man from Sussex who collapsed on a walk. Torrential rain and cold weather aggravated his condition.

Two schoolgirls aged 17 from Wigan and Leigh suffered exposure and exhaustion. Both were weak due to poor feeding at camp. A poorly equipped schoolparty.

A search was mounted for a 14 year old girl from Hawkshead, missing since tea-time. Found at 3.00 a.m. dazed and shocked. Thrown from her horse at 7 p.m. Forestry workers assisted.

A 14 year old girl from Carlisle stumbled and fell 30ft. into open quarry hole. She suffered spinal and leg injuries. Team evacuated her through flooded sections of the quarry.

A 24 year old male from Leicester fell 250ft. to the base of the crag and sustained severe head, spinal, pelvic and leg injuries.

A 14 year old girl suffered from an asthmatic attack. When the team reached her, she had recovered. A 13 year old boy in the party had injured his ankle, and had to be evacuated by stretcher.

The Team were called to assist a 17 year old youth from Marlow who lost control whilst descending screes and suffered head, back and leg injuries.

The Team were called to assist a 13 year old A.T.C. cadet from Leyland who suffered shock, head and leg injuries when he fell on screes. Poor footwear a possible cause of accident.

The Team went to the assistance of a 62 year old female from Birkenhead, who fell whilst descending over boulders. She suffered a fractured left leg, lacerations to both legs, shock and mild exposure.

During a cadet exercise, a 16 year old youth stumbled on snow covered boulders and suffered a fractured ankle. The Team were called to assist, as Wrynose Pass was blocked by snow.

A 38 year old man from Loughborough fell 30ft., and sustained severe bruising and shock whilst trying to climb fresh snow. The Team were called to evacuate the inexperienced party, who had no ropes or crampons, from the top section of the Gulley.

A search was mounted for a 19 year old female from Cornwall. S.A.R.D.A. and Patterdale Team assisted. Found by search dog at 4 a.m. suffering from advanced exposure. A helicopter from R.A.F. Boulmer flew her to Whitehaven Hospital.

A massive search involving many Rescue Teams to find a male fellwalker with severe exposure on Great End. A five day search ended when the body was located under 4ft. of snow off Ill Crag by one of the dogs.

The Team and RAF Leeming M.R.T. assisted Police to recover the body of a Kendal woman and injured child from wreckage of a car, which skidded on heavy snow and rolled down a 60? embankment.

A search was mounted to find 4 climbers overdue from Great End Gulleys. Assisted Wasdale Team, and searched Sty Head to Langdale. Found Brotherikeld, Eskdale.

A search was mounted for a male climber reported overdue. The Team, assisted by Kendal and Keswick Teams searched Great End and Bowfell areas. Found unharmed 9.30 a.m. on 14th January 1980.Lost in darkness, no torch carried.

The Team were called to assist a 41 year old female from Ormskirk, who sustained a fractured lower leg when she slipped on snow/ice covered track. Located on the Tongue Ghyll path, Grasmere.

The Team were called to assist a 48 year old female from Blackpool, who sustained a fractured right leg when she slipped and fell on an ice covered path.

The Team were called out to assist a 22 year old woman from Salisbury after she had fallen 600' descending an ice gulley. She sustained spinal and head injuries plus pelvic and leg injuries. She had no Ice Axe or Crampons. Footnote: When snow and ice conditions prevail an Ice Axe and Crampons are essential. It is, however, vital that the person knows how to use this equipment. The "Sea King" crew must be praised for their effort on this rescue for not only were they operating in very poor conditions but also assisted on two other rescues that night.
Weather Conditions: Very Cold, Snow and Ice, Dark Mist.

The Team were called out to search for a 23 year old woman and a 19 year old man from Burton-on-Trent and Tatbury after they had been reported overdue at Langdale by a friend. They had been on a walk to Scafell. After searching all night they were found safe and well at 9-00 a.m. on 24th December.
Footnote: This couple had a tent with them and night caught them out on the tops so they camped at "Langdale Comb". They seemed rather cold but otherwise O.K. Weather Conditions: Snow and Sleet, Cold, Mist, Ice Underfoot, also Wet.

The Team went to the assistance of a 27 year old woman from Waiter, York who had a knee and leg injury. She was taken home by a companion for treatment.
Weather Conditions: Dull Drizzle, Cold, Very Wet Underfoot.

The Team went to the assistance of a 27 year old woman from Waiter, York who had a knee and leg injury. She was taken home by a companion for treatment.
Weather Conditions: Dull Drizzle, Cold, Very Wet Underfoot.

The Team went to the assistance of a 21 year old man from Grasmere who had injured his leg. After being seen by the Team Doctor he was allowed home.
Weather Conditions: Very Cold and Clear, Snow on frozen paths.

The Team were called out to assist a 45 year old man from Barrow-in-Furness after he had slipped and fallen about 50' on black ice. He sustained broken ribs and cuts, etc. He was well equipped and an experienced walker. Weather Conditions: Very Cold, Clear and Frosty, Ice Underfoot.

It was reported that a 14 year old boy from Stapleford, Notts., had collapsed from exposure but when the Team arrived at Gt. Rigg Man there was nobody there. He had been escorted down to Grasmere by his friends.
Footnote: This was a "wild goose chase". In fact we were so concerned that we called in a Helicopter that was on a practice flight in the area to search for this young man. Weather Conditions: Hail and Sleet, Cold, Windy, Frozen Ground.

The Team were called out to search for 2 adults aged 48 and 28 years and 9 Cadets average age 17 years from Wealdston and Harrow area. They were all safe and well (just) at 2-30 a.m. on 29th October. They had no idea where they were and navigation was very poor as was their equipment.
Footnote: If this Group had not been found when they were it could have been much worse, if not a disaster. They were very exhausted and in poor condition. They were also miles away from their intended route — a search dog found the party at "Cam Spout", Scafell, assistance was given by the Millom Team. Weather Conditions: Cold, Wet, Hail Showers and Very Wet Underfoot.

A search was called for two youths from Ashstead and High Field in Surrey. They were found safe and well at 6-20 a.m. on 24th October. Poor navigation had resulted in them "getting lost" so they had decided to go to ground for the night.
Weather Conditions: Cold and Wet Underfoot.

The Team went to the assistance of a 28 year old man from Wakefleld who had fractured his leg when he was Trial riding. He had hit a rock and been thrown off the machine.
Footnote: Garburn seems to be a training ground for this type of sport — so" endeth a busy day".

The Team went to recover the body of a 24 year old man from Manchester who had slipped while descending the grass footpath after finishing his rock climb. He fell 200'.
Footnote: This man had "E.B.s" (a smooth soled rock boot) on which could have been the cause of him to fall. It was later learned that he was a novice climber.
Weather Conditions: Cold, Wet, Rain at times. Wet Rock.

The Team went to the assistance of a 50 year old woman from Westhoughton, Bolton who had slipped on the wet fellside and fractured her leg.
Footnote: With Rescue 29 just finished this was the start of a very busy day. Weather Conditions: Cold, Wet, Rain at times, Wet Underfoot.

A search was mounted for a 24 year old man from the Kirkstone Pass Inn, Ambleside after he failed to report for work at 12 noon. The man was found dead behind the Inn at 8-30 a.m. on 13th October.
Footnote: 8 Mountain Rescue Teams, Search Dogs and an R.A.F. Helicopter from Boulmer took part in this search. Local Mines were searched by Mine Rescue Unit.
Weather Conditions: Cold, Clear, Wet Underfoot.

The Team were called out to search for a lady who had separated from her husband on a walk from Thirlspot to Wythbum. The Team did not find her but she turned up safely in Grasmere.
Footnote: A case of searching for someone before they were lost. Weather Conditions: Rain, Low Mist, Cool and Wet Underfoot.

A search was launched for two girls aged 9 and 8 years and a boy aged 11 years from Wane, Herts., after they had been allowed to run off and away from the adults in the party. They were found safe and well at 7-45 p.m. near Wrynose Bridge.
Footnote: These children had shorts and Wellingtons. Very little protection against the weather that prevailed at the time.
Weather Conditions: Low Mist, Showers, Very Wet Underfoot.

A 40 year old man from Carlisle was exploring a mine when the roof collapsed and he was buried 30' from the mine entrance. He sustained head, leg, arm and chest injuries.
Footnote: This man had been warned by others that it was unsafe to go and explore due to dangerous state of roof, etc. lt took 4 hours to free the man by the Mine Rescue Unit. This comprises a section of our Team, the Keswick Team and the Kendal Team, plus the Helicopter from R.A.F. Boulmer which transported rescue mine equipment from the Cave Rescue Organisation at Clapham to Caldbeck.
Weather Conditions: Dry, Warm.

The Team were called out to a 20 year old man from Huyton, Liverpool who had become "cragfast" so had jumped down 10' to a ledge, missed and fell. He sus¬tained a fractured left leg.
Footnote: Passing walkers found this injured man, which was very lucky for him. He was walking solo off the path and in very bad conditions. Weather Conditions: Torrential Rain, Very Low Mist, Wet Rocks, etc.

The Team went to the assistance of a 13 year old boy from Gerrards Cross, Bucks., who was suffering from exhaustion. The rest of the group carried this boy "piggy back" to half way down Rossett Ghyll.
Footnote: The journey attempted with this young boy was far too much — his condition proved it.
Weather Conditions: Cold, Rain, Low Mist, Wet Ground.

The Team were called to the assistance of a 19 year old girl from Leigh-on-Sea, Essex when a dry stone wall she was climbing collapsed on top of her. She sus¬tained leg injuries and cuts.
Footnote: This young lady should have found a better place to cross, in fact there was an easier place further on. Weather Conditions: Cold, Rain, Dull, Wet Underfoot.

The Team were called to assist two fourteen year old boys from Halifax and Grange-over-Sands after one had tumbled and knocked the other coming down the Screes. They sustained head wounds, arm and leg injuries. Weather Conditions: Cold, Rain, Dull, Wet Rocks and Ground.

The Team went to the assistance of a 77 year old man from Buxton who had suffered a Heart Attack.
Footnote: This man was a very experienced walker. Weather Conditions: Warm, Sunny.

A 16 year old bot collapsed at Angle Tarn and the coverd more miles than all the team out together. He was found at Rosthwaite in Borrowdale.
 

The Team went to bring off the fell a 53 year old man from Connetticut, U.S.A. who had suffered a Heart Attack. The man could have taken the wrong pills at the wrong time and this misuse of Drugs could bring on anxiety and stress. Footnote: Not the best of patients to bring off the fell. I thought women could talk!! After this rescue a large hammer has been added to our medical equipment.
Weather Conditions: Warm, Sunny, Dry.

The team went to assist an 18 year old youth from Stockton, Cleveland after he decided to descend some very slippery rocks instead of using the path. He fells 250ft sustaining severe head, spine, leg and chest injuries.
Footnote: This young man was advised not to go on these rocks by by members of his party. RAF Boulmer was called in to fly him to hospital in Whitehaven.
Weather conditions: Low mist, Cold wind, Rain, Very Wet on Rocks

The Team were called to assist a 56 year old man and a 54 year old woman from Ambleside who were overcome by heat?? There were other causes than 'heat' both were under Doctor's care.
Footnote: This rescue could be 'classed' as a medical problem. The lady said that the low flying Military Aircraft had frightened her which caused her to fall. On reflection this could be a possibility. The noise and the element of surprise can give one a shock. I am afraid we have not heard the last of this 'new c&use' of accidents.
Weather Conditions: Very Hot, Sunshine, Very Dry.

The Team went to the assistance of a 15 year old boy from Stevenage who had sustained head injuries. The informant gave Grid References at Sheep Crag — "i\ mi'les from the accident scene and the team had to search for a1 long time.
Footnote: This was a badly organised school party. Weather Conditions: Cool Dull day.

The Team were called out to bring a 47 year old lady from Whalley, West Midlands, down the fell as she had fractured her right ankle.
Footnote: This lady had smooth soled shoes on ground which was very wet. Weather Conditions: Very Wet, Boggy, Dark, Cool — Fine.

A 27 year old woman from Sheffield fell about 60ft. while leading a pitch and the Belay failed. She sustained knee, thigh and pelvic injuries. Footnote: Her "second" failed to arrest her fall due to Belay failure.
Weather Conditions: Wet Rock, Dull, Rain, Cold.

The Team assisted an 18 year old youth from Grimsby down to the Old Dungecn Ghyll Hotel as he had an injured ankle. The accident happened at AH^n Crags. His friends had gone to Styhead for a stretcher.
Footnote: No explanation was given why they went for a stretcher, which was never used and why they made the long journey to Langdale when there was an easier escape route off the fell. Weather Conditions: Cool, Fine, Dry, Wet Underfoot.

The Team recovered the body of a 74 year old man from Morecambe. It is not known if this man slipped and sustained head injuries or whether he had a medical condition which proved fatal.
Weather Conditions: Fine, Cool, Wet Underfoot.

The Team searched a long time for a 17 year old youth from Tewkesbury who sustained a sprained ankle as the informant was 1 mile out with his Grid Reference.
Footnote: Grid References given by informants are usually wrong and can be anything up to 3 miles out.
Weather Conditions: Cold and Low Mist, Drizzle, Snow Showers, very Wet on Fells.

A 24 year old man from Maidstone, Kent was abseiling and fell 40ft. — landing on his back and sustaining severe spinal injuries. The Team were called to assist.
Footnote: He descended the last 50ft. too fast, out of control and fell. All the climbing equipment was in first class order.
Weather Conditions: Warm, Sunny, Dry.

The Team went to the assistance of a 21 year old man from St. Helens who sus¬tained spinal, leg and head injuries. This man had training shoes on and poor clothing. He had no idea of fell walking.
Footnote: He had fallen about 80ft — he was rather lucky because he could have fallen 600ft. on steep fellside. Once again poor footwear was the cause.
Weather Conditions: Warm and Clear, Wet Rock and Grass.

The Team were called to the assistance of a 69 year old woman from Ormskirk who had fractured her lower leg. The informant took a long time to find his way down to raise the alarm — about a 1$ hour delay.
Footnote: This lady had smooth fell boots on, which could have been the cause of
her slipping.
Weather Conditions: Sunny and Warm, Mud on path, Wet grass.

At the request of Kendal Team our Team searched the Kirkstone and Troutbeck area for 9 Cadets (Soldiers) who were found safe and well after a long search.
Footnote: These Cadets were found in the Nan Bield area by the Kendal Team and
one of our Dog Handlers.
Weather Conditions: Low Mist, Sleet, Snow, Ice under old Snow.

A 31 year old man from Westcliffe-on-Sea had fallen about 300ft. from a main gulley onto snow sustaining head injuries and a possible fractured cheekbone. The Team escorted him down.
Footnote: His injuries may have been caused by his Ice Axe. Another climber stopped him falling any further — very well equipped.
Weather Conditions: Cold, Deep Snow, Ice, Clear.

The Police requested that the Team search a wider area for the lost equipment from Call-out No. 4 (previous day) but with negative results. It was three weeks before this man was identified.

The body of a 29 year old man from Wimbledon who was walking solo was found by three walkers. The Team recovered the body which was buried in snow. Footnote: No identity on this man, nothing was found at the scene. He had very poor equipment for conditions when found — jeans, poor anorak and fell boots only. Weather Conditions: Severe Blizzards, Deep Snow and Ice Cold.

The Team went to assist a man from Frodsham, Cheshire who had fractured his lower leg. This man was walking in Wellingtons and he had Rally type clothing on. Footnote: Team Members had to use Crampons to rescue this man who had no idea of the dangers that prevailed. This was the quickest rescue of the year — the Team was training 200 yards from him.
Weather Conditions: Clear and Cold, Ice on all Footpaths.

A report was received of 3 men caught in an Avalanche. Search by Keswick Team all. night. They were found the next afternoon at Eskdale.
Footnote: Team was taken by Helicopter (R.A.F. Boulmer) to the Central Gulley area (with Avalanche Probes) to assist Keswick, Wasdale and S.A.R.D.A. This was the first time we used the new "Sea King" Helicopter.
Weather Conditions: Cold, Waist Deep Snow, Low Cloud.

This incident involved 2 Women, 1 Boy and a Dog (Afghan) from Kendal. Injuries sustained were exhaustion due to carrying the Dog. Team had to carry Dog on stretcher for 2 miles. Dog could not walk — snow "balling-up" on legs.
Footnote: This party set off far too late to complete their journey in daylight. To take this type of Dog for a walk in deep snow was not wise.
Weather Conditions: Dark, Cold, Deep Snow and Ice. ?

A 22 year old man from Liverpool collapsed with exposure/exhaustion while on a college expedition. His friends had escorted him most of the way down before the Team arrived. He then collapsed again at Stool End Farm, Langdale. The Team used the REVIVA on this man and carried him by Team transport to Ambleside, then by Ambulance to a Kendal hospital.
Weather conditions: COLD, CLEAR, SNOW AND ICE ON THE TOPS, SNOW AND ICE UNDERFOOT.

A 21 year old man from Durham slipped and fell 80 ft while descending from after rock climb. He sustained two fractured femurs, head and spinal injuries. The Team carried him on stretcher then by ambulance to a Lancaster hospital.
Footnote: Most climbing accidents seem to happen when climbers are descending after completion of a route.
Weather conditions: COLD, RAINING, DULL, VERY WET ROCK

Nine students from Leeds were reported missing by friends when they failed to report at Langdale. The Team and SARDA made a search of the fells - at 12 midnight the students were found by the Team at Angle Tarn suffering from exposure. The Team escorted all nine to safety. They were seen by a Doctor and then taken to Windermere for baths and bed.
Footnote: This party had little equipment and with the weather as it had been all day - appalling - they should never have started out - once again bad judgement.
Weather conditions: HEAVY RAIN, LOW MIST, COLD, VERY WET UNDERFOOT

Four teenage schoolgirls and one female school teacher from Radcliffe, Manchester were reported lost by other members of the school party. The team searched from the Grasmere and Langdale sides of Stickle Tarn. The Team found this group at 8.30pm near Tarn Crag, Langdale they were escorted from the fellside.
Footnote:This was a complete shambles, because this party had only come up to Lakeland for a day trip and only to visit Brockhole and Dove Cottage. They had no fellwalking equipment at all. For some reason they took to the fell at Grasmere to walk via Easedale Tarn - Stickle Tarn then to Langdale to be reunited with the coach.Nobody has yet explained why this party (40 in all) took this 'walk' at 2.30pm in the afternnon when they only had1 hour of daylight left. Clothing - school uniform, shoes, long white socks, town clothes etc. - VERY LUCKY INDEED.
Weather conditions: DARK, COLD, SHOWERS, WET UNDERFOOT

A 71 year old female from High Wycombe slipped on the wet fellside and broke her left leg. She was carried on a stretcher, then by Team's Land Rover / ambulance to a Doctor in Ambleside. Footnote:This lady had smooth sol shoes which could have contributed to her fall. Weather conditions: DRY, CLEAR, WARM, WET UNDERFOOT

Four teenage ATC cadets from Chester le Street, Co. Durham required assistance when they became completely lost , and one was reported to be in a collapsed condition. A search was mounted by three MR teams and SARDA and they were found at 1.30am next morning. Three were escorted down - one had to be carried ona a stretcher. All were seen by the Team Doctor and allowed togo home after treatment.
Footnote: The first grid reference for the location of casualties was about 2 miles out.
Weather conditions: CLEAR, DARK, DRY, WARM, WET UNDERFOOT.

A 54 year old woman from Woodleigh, Berks. slipped off a path and broke her ankle. The team carried her on a stretcher down the fell and then by private transport to a Kendal hospital
Weather conditions: FINE, DRY, CLEAR, WET IN PLACES

Two 18 year old youths from Kingston uopn Thames and Enfield collapsed with exposure/exhaustion at Martcrag Moor. One youth had to be carried on a stretcher, the other had to be assisted off the fell. Both recieved treatment in Langdale, neither went to hospital
Footnote: This group decided to walk at high level when the weather was appalling. - their judgement was wrong- their word not ours - but we agree
Weather condition: SEVERE GALES, RAIN, MIST DOWN TO 500ft., VERY WET UNDERFOOT

A 62 year old man from Leeds slipped and fell 30ft. down a fellside. He sustained a suspected broken neck, with severe head and spinal injuries. After the team had given first aid treatment a helicopter form RAF Boulmer flew him to hospital at Whitehaven
Weather conditions: RAIN AT TIMES, MIST, DULL WET UNDERFOOT

A 68 year old man from Bowness
on Windermere collapsed and DIED while walking with his wife on Red Screes, Kirkstone. The team recovered the body.
Footnote: This is the sad part of our "job". - a family walk out for a walk doing everything right and well equipped.
 

A 43 year old man from South Shields slipped off a boulder hidden in bracken. He sustained a broken ankle. The team carried him on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Kednla hospital.
Weather conditions: DRY, CLEAR, WARM, DRY UNDERFOOT

A 47 year old man from Cheam slipped on the wet fellside, and sustained an inured femur. He was carried on a stretcher by the team and then to hospital by ambulance
Weather conditions: DRY, CLEAR, WARM, WET UNDERFOOT

Two climbers — one a 27 year old man from Warwick and a 15 year old girl from Birmingham, were descending after a rock climb. They both slipped and fell 150 ft. The young girl walked away with minor injuries but the man sustained a fractured pelvis, leg injuries ans spinal injuries. He was Stretchered down by the team and then by ambulance to Kendal hospital.

A 63 year old man from Birmingham collapsed with an Heart Attack, some D of E boys assisted his wife at the scene. The Team carried him'off the hill by stretcher where he was seen by the Team Doctor, then to a Kendal hospital by ambulance. Footnote: This man had a history of heart trouble, but had not had an attack for some time. Some good work was done by the D of E boys who were on an expedition. Weather conditions: DRIZZLE, DULL, LOW MIST, WET UNDERFOOT.

A 15 year old youth from Ambleside slipped and fell on a footpath. He sustained an injured right ankle. The Team carried him on a stretcher and then by own transport to hospital. Weather conditions: WARM, DULL, FINE, WET PATCHES UNDERFOOT.

A 14 year old boy from Seaford, Sussex fell 12 ft. from first pitch of a rock climb. He sustained injuries to the spine and arm. He was carried by the Team on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Kendal hospital. Footnote: Incorrect use of a stitcht belay plate resulted in failure to arrest the fall. Weather conditions: HOT, SUNNY, DRY, CLEAR, DRY ROCK.

A 40 year old woman from Holland was reported missing by the leader of a group of Dutch campers who were camping at Limefitt Park, Windermere. She had not been seen for two days prior to the search. Search was called off when she turned up at the camp site. She had been to CHESTER with two Americans. Footnote: This woman had been taken by two Americans to Chester for a few days without telling anyone. She seemed rather an odd sort of woman with some very strange habits and ways.

An 18 year old youth from Maryport slipped and fell after climbing EASY GULLY. He sustained a broken ankle. The Team carried him on a stretcher and then by his own transport to a Barrow-in-Furness hospital. Weather conditions: DRY, WARM, CLEAR, WET PATCHES UNDERFOOT.

A search was started when a 43 year old man from Sheffield was reported missing by his friend, who had left him at the summit of Hart Crag at 4.00 p.m. Four more teams and S.A.R.D.A. were called in at first light to continue the search. The search was called off when the man was found on Windermere railway station at 10.30 a.m. Footnote: This man had spent all night in a Guest House in Grasmere and was returning home by train. There seems to have been some disagreement between these so-called friends. I only wish that they could have sorted it out themselves without involving the Mountain Rescue Teams. Weather conditions: RAIN, GALE FORCE WINDS, DARK, FLOODS.

The Team assisted the local Police to recover the body of a 45 year old Windermere man, who had taken his dog for a walk on the previous night on the low fells around Windermere. Footnote: This could not be classed as a genuine mountain accident. Weather conditions: DRY, SUNNY, CLEAR.

The Team was asked to assist S.A.R.D.A. and 3 other Mountain Rescue Teams to search for three 16 year old females, who had become separated from a party of 8 fellwalers when on a fell walk from Duddon to Borrowdale. The girls were found at 2.50 a.m. at Styhead uninjured — benighted and lost. Footnote: Basic failure to keep party together at all times, especially in poor conditions. This will repeat itself again and again. Weather conditions: LOW CLOUD, MIST, RAIN, GALE FORCE WINDS, DARK, VERY WET UNDERFOOT.

A 19 year old youth from Farnham slipped and fell on the screes, sustaining head and arm injuries. The Team escorted the youth down the fell, he was seen by the Team Doctor, then by own transport to Kendal hospital. Footnote: Screes seem to take their toll of fellwalkers. Great care should be taken when descending them. Weather conditions: DRY, CLEAR, SHOWERS NOW AND AGAIN.

A 14 year old youth from Fishburn, Co. Durham fell 15 ft down a ravine and sustained head injuries. The Team carried the Youth on a stretcher to an ambulance and then to Lancaster. Footnote: This was a well organised group, but a simple slip resulted in a nasty accident. Weather conditions: DRY, LOW CLOUD, DULL, WET UNDERFOOT.

A 17 year old youth from Flixton, Manchester collapsed with torn ligaments and muscles in his right leg. The Team carried the youth 1 Yz miles on a stretcher and then by own transport to hospital. Footnote: The youth had attempted to walk with his injuries, but the severe pain had been too much. Weather conditions: CLEAR, SUNNY, COOL BREEZE, DRY.

The Team and S.A.R.D.A. searched the above areas when it was reported that two male student climbers from Durham University were overdue when it was time for the coach to leave Langdale at 8.30 p.m. The search was called off at 1.00 a.m. the next morning when they turned up at Durham. Footnote: If climbers and walkers gave a little more thought to their actions, it would save Rescue Teams a considerable amount of expense and time. These two climbers had HITCH HIKED home without telling anybody. A phone call to the local Police advising them of their safe return off the hill would have been all that was needed. Weather conditions: DARK, DRY, FAIRLY WARM, PATCHES OF OLD SNOW. >

A 36 year old man from Kew, Surrey fell 250 ft. whilst abseiling off Raven Crag. He sustained injuries from which he DIED. The Team recovered his body. Footnote: The knot in his tape belay sling came undone. Knots on any slings should be checked regularly. Weather conditions: GOOD - SUNSHINE, FINE, DRY ROCK.

A search was started by S.A.R.D.A., Patterdale and ourselves when a male fellwalker from Macclesfield failed to turn up in Patterdale after leaving the Grasmere Y.H.A. He left a route card at Grasmere to say he would be going to Patterdale via Helvellyn and Swirral Edge. The overnight search was called off when he turned in for work at 7.00 a.m. next morning at Macclesfield. Footnote: This thoughtless, irresponsible walker put a lot of people to a great amount of trouble searching in appalling weather conditions for a man who had gone home, and who had never been on the 'hill', despite leaving a route card. Weather conditions: DEEP SNOW, HARD FROST, BLIZZARDS, VERY COLD & ICE UNDERFOOT.

A search was started when a 33 year old man from Kendal had become separated from the main school party. He was found by the Team on a road in the Langdale Valley safe and well. Footnote: This seems rather funny — it's usually children that become separated from adults. Weather conditions: COLD, DRY, MISTY - WET UNDERFOOT.

A 17 year old youth from Manchester received burns and scalds to his foot after a pan of boiling water was knocked over. He was carried down the fellside on a stretcher, seen by the Team Doctor, then taken home by his parents. Footnote: Any kind of camping stove and the utensils used in making a meal should be treated with the utmost care. Weather conditions: DARK, COLD, FINE. GROUND WET IN PLACES.

A 31 year old Preston man slipped and fell 200 ft. after completing a rock climb. He sustained injuries from which he DIED. The Team recovered his body. Footnote: This climber had finished his climb and was descending when the accident happened — he was very experienced. Weather conditions: DULL, CLEAR AT TIMES - WET ROCK IN PLACES.

A search was started when fellwalkers raised the alarm in Patterdale that a group of 8 A.T.C. and 2 adults were suffering from exposure between Hart Crag and Fairfield. Patterdale and Penrith M.R.T. assisted and searched all known escape routes. Search called off at 8.15 p.m. when the A.T.C. Group walked off the fells, unaided, in Grasmere. Footnote: Why this inexperienced group had set out on a high level walk Nobody seems to know. The weather had been bad all day in addition to deep snow and ice at high levels. This group had no crampons or ice axes. Not a well organised party at all. Weather conditions: Cold, Snow at times. Dark. Ice and snow underfoot.

A 26 year old man from Peterbourgh fell on the screes and sustained leg injuries. He was carried by the Team on a stretcher and then by private car to hospital. Footnote: A stone was dislodged by a member of the same party which made this man fall. Weather conditions: Rain and mist at times. Very wet underfoot.

A 30 year old woman and a 20 year old man fell about 100 ft. while snow and ICE climbing near the summit of Harrison Stickle. Both climbers sustained injuries and were flown by R.A.F. Helicopter to Whitehaven Hospital. Footnote: The accident was caused by a slip as belays were being changed on a ledge.

An 18 year old male student from Sheffield slipped and fell about 700 ft. He sustained two broken legs, pelvic, spinal & facial injuries. He was carried on a stretcher to Patterdale by Kendal, Penrith, Patterdale and Langdale Teams. Weather conditions: DARK, COLD, SNOW & ICE, SNOWING AT TIMES.

A 30 year old female from Oxford slipped and fell 250 ft. near DOVE CRAG. She sustained serious multiple injuries. The Team assisted Patterdale M.R.T. in stretchering the lady down the fell and then by ambulance to Carlisle hospital. Weather conditions: DARK - VERY COLD. SNOW AT TIMES. ICE AND DEEP SNOW UNDERFOOT.

A 30 year old man from Morecambe fell off a sledge. He received facial and chest injuries. He was carried of the hill by stretcher, before receiving treatment by one of the Team Doctors. Weather conditions: Very Cold. ICE & SNOW. Clear. Dry.

A 25 year old man from Liverpool slipped and fell on ICE and sustained leg and pelvic injuries. He was carried by the Team, assisted by Patterdale M.R.T., on'a stretcher to an ambulance, then to hospital at Kendal. Footnote: No crampons or ICE AXE. Weather conditions: As in Call-out No. 5.

A 24 year old man from London slipped and fell 20 ft. in snow and ICE. He sustained a dislocated leg & spinal injuries. He was carried on a stretcher to an awaiting ambulance at Brimmer Head Farm, then to Lancaster Hospital. The Team was assisted by Kendal M.R.T. & Leeds Outdoor Pursuits Club. Footnote: No crampons & ICE AXE. Weather conditions: As in Call-out No. 5.

Four men aged from 19 years — 23 years from Thornton Cleveleys, Lanes, fell between 750 ft. — 1,200 ft. from FAIRFIELD near the summit on snow and ice. 1 Man DIED 1 Man MULTIPLE INJURIES (SINCE DIED) 1 Man SERIOUS INJURIES 1 Man NO INJURIES - JUST SHOCK The Team carried all the injured men on stretchers down to Grasmere assisted by the Keswick M.R.T. then by ambulance to Lancaster Hospital. R.A.F. Helicopter assistance could not be given due to BLIZZARDS AND MIST. Footnote: No ICE AXES or CRAMPONS. TEAMS had to be called in from Keswick, Kendal, R.A.F. Leeming M.R.T. and Patterdale as six separate mountain incidents were taking place at the same time in the area. Weather conditions: BLIZZARDS, SNOW AND ICE, DULL, VERY COLD, VERY DANGEROUS UNDERFOOT.

A man from Nottingham slipped and fell 300 ft. on ice and snow. He sustained a broken ankle and suffered exposure. He was attended to by the Team, and Patterdale M.R.T. then flown to hospital in Carlisle by R.A.F. Helicopter from Boulmer. Footnote: Severe ICE & SNOW conditions made fellwalking very dangerous. Weather conditions: DEEP SNOW & ICE, VERY COLD, DULL - BLIZZARDS AT TIMES

Two men were reported missing in the Bowfell area. A search was made by the Team & S.A.R.D.A. Search called off at -10.00 a.m. when the two men turned up in Langdale. Weather conditions: Cold, Wet, Misty - ICE AND SNOW UNDERFOOT.

A 64 year old man from Stockport slipped on the ICE AND SNOW sustaining a broken leg. The Team carried him on a stretcher to a waiting ambulance, then to hospital at Kendal. Weather conditions: Rain and Snow, Misty, Dull - ICE AND DEEP SNOW UNDERFOOT.

The Team assisted Coniston M.R.T. in recovering the body of a 26 year old Bolton man when he fell 340 ft. down a disused mine shaft at TAYLOR LEVEL MINE, RED DELL, CONISTON. Footnote: This man had climbed over a fence around the mine shaft — Two years earlier a similar accident occured — this time the victim lived. Weather conditions: Rain, Mist, Cold, Darkness.

A search was started by the team when 10 schoolboys and 2 adults from Everton failed to return from a fellwalk on the Crinkle Crags area, Langdale. Team members with dogs searched many valleys and fell tops. They were found unharmed, but slightly exposed and exhausted at 3.00 a.m., near Green Hole, Higher Esk. The team escorted them down to Brotherelkeld, Eskdale, and then by ambulances to Langdale , where they had a meal and changed to dry clothes. Team assisted by Eskdale OBMS and Patterdale. Footnote: This group started off far too late in the day for a long distance walk. Darkness and mist overcame them and they were lost. If the team had not found them when they did, owing to adverse weather conditions a large percentage of this group would have been in very poor condition by the morning. Weather conditions: Rain, gale force winds, mist, very cold, darkness. Very wet underfoot.

A 32 year old man from Dalton-in-Furness slipped on ice covered ground at Shelter Crags, Langdale. He sustained a leg injury. The team stretchered him down the fellside, and then by friends car to Barrow hospital. Footnote: Once again, ice accounted for this accident. The only sensible answer to ice is a simple crampon fixed to the boots. Weather conditions: Cold, fine, snow at times, darkness. Ice and snow underfoot. Ground conditions very dangerous.

The team was called to assist Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team when a 36 year old man and his 6 year old daughter from Mirfield, Yorks., slipped and fell near the summit of Helvellyn. Both were found DEAD the following morning at 8.30 a.m. They had fallen 400 feet from the ridge. Footnote: The outcome of this incident was very sad indeed. The fell tops were very dangerous, with ice and snow covering a large area. Weather conditions: Very cold, dry, darkness. Ice and snow at all levels.

A 14 year old school boy from Wellingborough collapsed, due to exposure/exhaustion near Green-Up Edge. The team had to search for this boy before carrying him three miles on a stretcher to Grasmere. and then by ambulance to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: The grid-reference given to the team by the informants was 1 mile out. It was then that a large area had to be searched before the group was finally located. Weather conditions: Cold, wet, windy, darkness. Snow and ice underfoot, with wet patches.

A 45 year old man from Chorley slipped and fell on wet grass at Blind Tarn Moss, Grasmere. He sustained a fractured ankle. The team carried him down the fell on a stretcher, and then by friend's car to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: Some team members had to divert from Call-out No. 35 on Gibson Knott to attend to this rescue. Weather conditions: Dull, rain at times, cold. Very wet underfoot.

A search was made of Gibson Knott, Grasmere, when a male fellwalker reported someone or something falling from Gibson Knott. Search called off when nothing was found. Footnote: The informant was definite that he saw something fall. False alarm with good intent. Weather conditions: Dull, rain at times, mist. Very wet underfoot.

A search was started when four people were reported missing on a walk from Langdale to Esk Hause, via Rossett Gill. The search was called off when they walked off the fell the next morning at 9.45 a.m., unharmed. — but LUCKY. They had spent the night near Hell Gill in Oxendale. Footnote: This group (1 man and 3 women) was still going up Rossett Gill at 4.30 p.m., with only one hour of daylight left They had no protective cloth¬ing, torch, food or spare clothing. Two of the party had Wellingtons, and none of them had fellwalking experience. Weather conditions: Strong winds, driving rain, cold, darkness. Very wet underfoot, becks in full flood.

A 57 year old female from Newcastle-under-Lyme slipped on a path at Tongue Gill, Grasmere. She sustained a fractured ankle. The team carried her down the fell on a stretcher, and then by ambulance to hospital in Kendal, Footnote: This lady had all the right equipment — a genuine accident Weather conditions: Overcast, dull, rain at times. Very wet underfoot

A 22 year old female from Cambridge fell 20 feet down a gulley on Middlefell, Langdale, after completing her rock climb. She sustained a serious compound fracture of the lower leg. The team carried her on a stretcher, and then by ambulance to Lancaster hospital with police escort. Footnote: Sadly for this young lady, this was her first attempt at rock climbing. The utmost care must be taken when descending after a rock climb, as this is when most accidents happen. Weather conditions: Good, clear, dry with moderate wind. Dry and loose rock underfoot.

The team was called out by the police to investigate a large fire in Easy Gulley, Pavey Ark. No persons were found to be involved, only burning grass and fell, ranging over 150 feet. The team returned off the 'hill' at 12.00 midnight. Footnote: From the valley below, the fire could have been mistaken for a crashed aircraft or tents etc. The fire was a complete mystery. Weather conditions: Moderate wind, dry with showers. Dry underfoot.

A 20 year old male from Barton, Bedfordshire slipped on screes while descending from Raven Crag, Langdale. He sustained a compound fracture of the right leg, plus facial injuries. The team carried him down on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Lancaster hospital. Footnote: A popular crag, fast becoming loose and polished through human erosion. Weather conditions: Dry, hot, clear. Very dry underfoot.

A 23 year old female from Doncaster collapsed with exhaustion and migraine at the head of Mosedale (237 041). She was carried by the team on a stretcher to Cockley Beck, and then by ambulance to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: This young lady was generally unfit for an expedition of such length, plus two nights camping out at high level in very hot weather. Weather conditions: Very hot, sunny, no wind. Dry underfoot.

An 18 year old female from Bolton was thrown to the deck of a boat by the wash from another speedboat by Wray Bay, Lake Windermere. She sustained serious spinal injuries. The team used a special spinal splint before lifting her from the boat. She was taken by ambulance to Lancaster hospital. Footnote: The Team's specialised medical equipment can be used, and is, for any accident, and not only for fell walkers and climbers. Weather conditions: Fine, warm, clear.

A 21 year old female from Bromsgrove, slipped off a path near Eagle Crag, Easedale, Grasmere. She sustained a severely cut knee, and was carried by the team on a stretcher, and then by sitting car to Kendal hospital. Footnote: This young lady had all the right equipment. Genuine accident. Weather conditions: Clear sunshine, dry. Wet patches underfoot.

A 12 year old school boy from Washington, Durham, collapsed with a virus infection at Tongue Gill, Grasmere. He was carried down the fell on a stretcher and then to hospital in Kendal by ambulance. Footnote: Yet another very good group who did everything right when faced with a serious problem on the fells. Weather conditions: Dull, dry, clear. Dry with wet patches underfoot.

A 56 year old man from Manchester slipped on the wet fellside and fractured his ankle/leg on Lingmoor Fell, Langdale. He was carried on a stretcher by team members and taken to hospital in Kendal by ambulance. Footnote: Smooth soled boots could have been the cause of this accident, as the fellside was very wet and slippery. Weather conditions: Dull, rain at times with low mist — very wet underfoot.

A 14 year old school boy from London collapsed with chest pains at Grizedale Tarn, Grasmere. He was carried down on a stretcher and then taken by ambulance to Kendal hospital. Footnote: This young boy had a history of chest trouble. His friends had done everything right, making him comfortable and sending for help. A very praise¬worthy group, and a lesson from which some adults could learn. Weather conditions: Very wet, low mist, ground conditions — saturated

A 17 year old school boy from Westbury slipped near Grizedale Tarn, Grasmere, and sustained an injured femur plus foot injuries (see footnote). He was escorted down the fell by the team after electing to walk. Seen by team doctor and allowed to go home later. Footnote: This injured boy was made to walk down, unaccompanied, by two teachers. There is also a suspicion that he was exhausted, due to his rucksack being overweight, and his walking boots, which were good, were not his own and a poor fit, and he had no waterproof trousers. Weather conditions: Very wet, low mist, cold. Very wet underfoot.

A 59 year old man from Leicester slipped on the fellside near Eagle Crag, Easedale, Grasmere, and sustained a fractured femur. He was carried on a stretcher down the fellside by the team, and then by ambulance to Lancaster hospital. Footnote: Once again, smooth soled boots could have been the cause of this accident. Weather conditions: Dull, fine, rather cold. Dry with wet patches underfoot.

A 21 year old female from Newcastle-upon-Tyne slipped and fell off a path at Stickle Tarn, Langdale, sustaining a fractured ankle. She was conveyed down the fell on a stretcher by the team, and then taken to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: This accident happened whilst she was assisting an injured male walker who was in the same party. Weather conditions: Fine, overcast, clear. Dry with wet patches underfoot.

A 37 year old Darlington man was struck by a falling rock whilst waiting to climb a route on Pavey Ark, Langdale. He sustained a serious shoulder injury. The team escorted him down the fellside after he had elected to walk. He was taken by a friend to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: Accidents like this happen every year, when the victim is unjured due to no fault of his own. There was a possibility of this accident being caused by a party ascending Jakes Rake, which is very 'loose' indeed. Weather conditions: Dry, warm and clear. Very dry underfoot.

An 81 year old woman from Cleveleys, Blackpool, slipped on loose stones on the lower slopes of Helvellyn (Welpside Gill area). She sustained a fractured ankle and leg injuries. The team carried her down on a stretcher to Wythburn, where she was taken by her son to hospital in Blackpool. Footnote: This was a remarkable old lady who suffered her injuries with a smile, but her footwear was smooth soled bootees, which could have caused the accident. There was also some delay in the team being called out as the telephone box at Wythburn had been vandalised. Weather conditions: Fine, warm and clear — very dry underfoot.

A 16 year old boy from Blackburn fell 20 feet whilst under climbing instructions on Black Crag, Langdale. He sustained pelvic injuries and minor cuts. He was carried down the fell on a stretcher and then by ambulance to hospital in Lancaster. Footnote: This boy was under climbing instruction from an adult instructor. Weather conditions: Clear, dry, warm. Dry underfoot

A 28 year old woman from Crewe fell 20 feet whilst leading a rock climb on Middlefell Buttress, Langdale. She sustained spinal and head injuries. The team lowered her by stretcher 200 feet from a rock ledge. She was taken by ambulance to hospital in Lancaster.

A 16 year old boy soldier from Norton Manor collapsed with exposure at Stickle Tarn, Langdale. The team carried him down on a stretcher, where he was seen by the team's doctor. Footnote: This group had camped on the tops all night, where it was very cold. None of this group were in good shape when found by the team. Weather conditions: Cold, dull, dry. Wet underfoot with dry patches.

A 60 year old woman slipped off a wooden footbridge at Penny Rock, Grasmere. She sustained a fractured femur and leg injuries. The team carried her on a stretcher and then by the team's landrover ambulance to Ambleside, where she was transferred to a public ambulance and taken to Lancaster hospital. Footnote: This lady was wearing town shoes and ordinary clothes where more robust items were called for even for this simple walk. Weather conditions: Clear, warm, dry — "boggy" and very wet underfoot.

A search was made of Wansfell, Ambleside, when flashes had been sighted from Wray Castle. Nothing was found, and the search was called off at 1.00a.m. (13.4.77) Footnote: This was a false alarm with good intent. Weather conditions: Rain, gale force winds, dark, very wet underfoot.

A 15 year old local school boy from Ambleside slipped and fell 60 feet when leading a rock-climb on Raven Crag, Langdale. He sustained spinal injuries and minor cuts. The team lowered him 80 feet over the crag face on a stretcher, and then carried him down to an ambulance and then to hospital at Lancaster. Footnote: For his age, this boy is a very keen and sensible climber. Weather conditions: Dull, rain showers with sunny periods. Rock had wet patches.

A 17 year old female student from St. Helens collapsed on a walk with friends in Rossett Gill, Langdale. She was carried down on a stretcher and seen by the team's doctor, then allowed to go home. Footnote: This young woman had already collapsed 3 times during her walk. It was also her first time on the fells. Weather conditions: Cold, snow showers, dull. Dry underfoot with wet patches.

A 15 year old school boy from Canvey Island collapsed due to exhaustion in Greenburn Valley — Rough Crag area Langdale. He was on an A.T.C., Duke of Edinburgh Award expedition. The team carried him on a stretcher and then by the team's ambulance to the doctor in Ambleside. Footnote: This boy had not eaten anything all day. It was also his first expedition. Weather conditions: Dull day, warm, wet underfoot.

A 47 year old woman from Bramhall slipped and fell 80 feet into a gulley on Swine Crag, Langdale. She sustained a fractured right ankle and head injuries. She was carried by the team on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Lancaster. Footnote: This lady was wearing fell boots but the soles were nearly smooth. Weather conditions: Rain showers, dull, moderate wind, very wet underfoot.

A 17 year old female student from Slough slipped and fell on Harrison Stickle, Langdale. She was carried by friends to Stickle Tarn, where the team found her. She had a compound fracture of the left ankle, plus an injured right ankle. The team carried her on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Lancaster hospital. Footnote: First aid had been given to this student by a Student Doctor. On investigation at the accident scene (Stickle Tarn) by two senior First Aid members, it was found to be incorrect, as the blood flow was constricted, which could have had serious medical consequences. Team members now, with respect, investigate all previous first aid treatment. Weather conditions: Gale force winds, cold, rain, very wet underfoot.

A 21 year old woman from London slipped and fell 20 feet, landing on a ledge on Raven Crag, Langdale. She fractured her right ankle and leg. She was lowered 30 feet by TRAGSITZ harness, and then carried on a stretcher to an ambulance for Kendal hospital. Footnote: This particular climbing club or group of people, of which this woman was a member, had been involved in three climbing accidents in seven days. Weather conditions: Good, dry, clear, warm, rock conditions "Greasy" — wet rock.

A 21 year old man from Nottingham fell 45 feet whilst on a solo rock climb on East Raven Crag, Langdale. He sustained severe cuts to the head and body, also bruises and shock. He was carried down the fell on a stretcher and seen by the team doctor. Footnote: This man had no climbing gear at all, footwear was training shoes, yet the route being attempted was "MAMBA". Quote from genuine climbers in the area "He was fooling about". Weather conditions: Good, clear, dry, warm. Dry underfoot

A 53 year old woman from Birkenhead slipped on the wet fellside at Helm Crag, Grasmere. She sustained a fractured left ankle. The team carried her on a stretcher to her car, which was driven by her husband to hospital at Kendal. Footnote: This lady had thirty years experience of Fellwalking in the Lake District. Weather conditions: Dull, fine, cold wind - in places very wet underfoot.

A 32 year old male fellwalker from Congleton slipped on wet rock in Easy Gulley on Pavey Ark, Langdale and fell 100 feet. He sustained a fractured leg with spinal and arm injuries. Carried on a stretcher by the team, then to hospital at Lancaster. Footnote: This man had to be lowered 300 feet down the gulley on a stretcher, which proved to be no mean feat, as he was 6' 4" and 171/2 stone — team members remember this rescue well!! Backs ache yet!! Weather conditions: Dull, fine and cold, darkness - very wet in the gulley and underfoot.

The Team assisted Keswick Mountain Rescue Team and search dogs after two male walkers were reported missing on Scafell Pike. Search called off after all night search when the men walked off the fell in Borrowdale at 9.00 a.m. Footnote: Once again, another group caught out by darkness — "We did not give ourselves enough time for the walk in daylight" said one man. Weather conditions: Deteriorating, thick hill fog, strong winds, cold - old hard snow underfoot.

The Team assisted the Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team in a search for two men missing in Deepdale — Greenhowe End area Patterdale. Found unharmed at 11.00 a.m., and escorted down the fell. Footnote: These men gave false names and addresses to the police — reason not given. They were caught out by darkness after climbing a snow gulley. Weather conditions: Thick hill fog, rain showers, windy. Thawing snow underfoot.

The team recovered the body of a missing man, age 40 years, at the head of Troutbeck Park, Troutbeck, Windermere, when a farmer found him whilst tending his sheep. Carried three miles by team on a stretcher. Footnote: There seems to be a mystery surrounding this man, who had been seen in the area some days before he was found. Last known address was Barrow-in-Furness. Cumbria police seem to know this man. Clothing and footwear (missing when found) totally inadequate for conditions. Weather conditions: Cold, dull with snow showers, ice and deep snow underfoot.

A search of Loughrigg Fell and surrounding areas of Ambleside was made when a 13 year old local boy was last seen at Todd Crag, Loughrigg. The boy was found unharmed at Rydal at 9.00 p.m. Footnote: The boy had little or no protective clothing to spend a night on the fells. Plimsoles were his only form of footwear. Weather conditions: Very cold, ice underfoot, darkness.

Two men, both aged 26 years, from Lancaster and Morecambe were reported missing by the parents of one of them. They had been walking from Langdale to Eskdale. They had phoned home from Brotherilkeld telephone base at 7.00 p.m. on 29.12.76 and said they would be late home having first to go back to Langdale for their car. Found safe and well at a Wasdale Hotel at 1.00 p.m. on 30.12.76.
Footnote: These two men had been safe and inside the Wasdale Hostel since 1.30 a.m. on the 30.12.76 but had not seen fit to tell anybody.

A 41 year old woman from Formby, Liverpool slipped and fell about 20ft. down the fellside near Thorn Crag, Langdale, sustaining a serious compound fracture of the humerus and head injuries. The team carried her down on a stretcher and then by police escorted ambulance to Lancaster Hospital.
Footnote: The helicopter was requested as there was a danger of the woman losing her arm, but this was diverted to Keswick where three climbers had fallen on Blencathra.

A 26 year old man from Durham was reported missing on the fells between Teesdale and Appleby. The team assisted all Lakeland teams plus North East Counties teams and RAF Boulmer. The man was found unharmed in the Teesdale area.
Footnote: The rest of the party including schoolchildren turned back onwalk. The above mentioned did not and was lost on the fells.

Three youths from Kirkham, Lanes, became detached from a walking party at Sprinkling Tarn due to low mist. The rest of the party, three adults and five youths, made their way to Langdale, where they raised the alarm. The team searched all night with dogs in appalling weather conditions. Youths found by the team at 9.30 a.m. next day at Higher Esk, Eskdale suffering from mild exposure after spending the night on the fells. Search panel involved and RAF Boulmer.
Footnote: The youths did a splendid job and coped well with their night on the fells. There is question why these youths were allowed to get detached from the main adult led group when their experience was limited and equipment not good for the weather encountered.

A 13 year old schoolboy from Middlesbrough was taken ill at Hanging Knotts — Rossett Ghyll area, Langdale.
The team carried him down on a stretcher. Team doctor attended, was confined to bed at an Outdoor Pursuits Centre in Langdale.
Footnote: The boy had a severe throat infection plus high temperature.

A 13 year old schoolboy from Stockport, who was under instruction, fell 60 ft. on Lower Scout Crag, Langdale. He sustained head and spinal injuries. The team carried him down on a stretcher and then to Hospital in Kendal.

Footnote: The 'Whillans' harness, which the boy had on, came undone, was not fitted correctly.

A 43 year old woman from Rotherham was hit by a large stone while descending Pike O Stickle screes, Langdale. She sustained serious head and shoulder injuries. Team carried her down the fellside on a stretcher and then to Hospital at Kendal.
Footnote: None of the M.L.C. Party could explain how the lady was hit on the head by the dislodged rock.

A 52 year old woman from Birmingham slipped on ice covered ground on Lingmoor, Langdale. She sustained a compound fracture of the lower leg. The team carried her down the fellside to an ambulance and then to Hospital in Kendal.
Footnote: We would have reached the injured lady much quicker and easier if we had been given the proper location.

A 70 year old Stockport woman slipped and fell on wet fellside on Wansfell, Ambleside and sustained a fracture of the left leg. Team carried her down the fell and then by Ambulance to Kendal Hospital.
Footnote: Once again, the fellside in wet and very dry weather can be just as dangerous as snow and ice.

A 15 year old schoolboy from Southport slipped and fell. He sustained slight head injuries (which affected his balance) in Mill Ghyll, Langdale. The team carried him down on a stretcher and then to Kendal Hospital. Footnote: Genuine accident. Well led party.

A 19 year old man from Liverpool was reported missing by friends on a walk from Patterdale to Grasmere via Grizedale Tarn. After a search by the team using search dogs, the man was found in Grasmere safe and well.
Footnote: The man was in a party of 6 when they set out from Patterdale, five turned back after bad weather had forced them to. The lone walker went on, but spent 10 hours on the fell.

A 20 year old man from Glossop fell 70 ft. whilst leading a pitch on Pavey Ark, Langdale. He fell into Easy Gulley sustaining head and spinal injuries.The team lowered him down on a stretcher then carried to Stickle Tarn where RAF Boulmer flew him to Whitehaven Hospital.
Footnote: A hand hold gave way and there were no runners on, he also elected not to wear a helmet. From report and his friends he was a competent climber.

A 40 year old woman from East Sussex slipped and fell on Red Screes, Kirkstone sustaining a fractured left ankle. The team conveyed her down on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Kendal Hospital.
Footnote: Bad footwear was a possible cause of this accident, the ladvt wore plimsoles with very smooth soles. The fellside also was bone hard due to the hot weather.

A 45 year old man from Hastings slipped and fell 20 ft. down Easy Gulley, Pavey Ark, Langdale. He sustained a fractured neck of femur. Team carried him out of gulley after lowering the stretcher by ropes for 400 ft. and then down the fellside to an ambulance and then to hospital in Kendal.
Footnote: Easy gulley is anything but, these days. There are many large rocks awaiting to roll down the gulley on some unsuspecting climber or walker.

A 16 year old youth from London slipped and fell 60 ft. down the fellside above Limefitt Caravan Park, Troutbeck, Windermere. He sustained head injuries. The team carried him down the fell on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Lancaster Hospital.
Footnote: The youth had smooth soled baseball shoes on, and the steep fellside was like glass hence the accident.

A 19 year old youth from Birmingham collapsed with exhaustion on the summit of Crinkle Crags, Langdale. Doctor and team members attended at the scene. RAF Boulmer was in the area at the time and flew the boy from Crinkle Crags to Langdale, where he recovered and was allowed to go home.
Footnote: The youth wanted to give up earlier, but was told to carry on.

A 15 year old schoolgirl from Southport collapsed due to exhaustion at Walthwaite Ghyll, Silver Howe, Chapel Stile. Doctor attended at the scene. Girl recovered and was escorted down the fell by team members.
Footnote: The weather was very hot indeed making the grass slopes and paths very slippery.

A 36 year old Royal Marine Sergeant from Arbroath, Scotland slipped and fell 100 ft. on Gimmer Crag, Langdale. He sustained fractured ribs, pelvis and internal injuries. Team carried him out of the gulley on a stretcher and 200 yards down the slope to a flat piece of ground where a helicopter from RAF Boulmer picked him up and flew to Whitehaven Hospital.
Footnote: The Army was advised by team doctor on hearing of the accident not to do a self rescue without the proper medical equipment — advice was taken.

A 14 year old schoolboy from Haywards Heath sustained serious head, face and internal injuries when under climbing instruction. It appeared a large rock hit the boy on the head. The team sent every piece of medical equipment up to the accident. The boy was carried by stretcher to Tarn Crag where RAF Boulmer picked the boy and team doctor up. Flown to Carlisle Hospital.
Footnote: This is where the teams medical equipment proved its worth. The resucitation equipment proved to be a sound investment.

A 12 year old schoolgirl from Darwen, Lanes, slipped on wet grass and fractured her leg and ankle at Easedale Tarn, Grasmere. The team carried her down the fell on a stretcher and then by sitting car to Hospital in Kendal.
Footnote: Half way down the fellside we had another call to a serious accident at Pavey Ark. Three quarters of the team left to deal with the incident.

A 25 year old man from Hornchurch slipped on wet rock and grass fracturing his left ankle at Erring Crag, The Band, Langdale. The team carried him down the fell on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Kendal Hospital.
Footnote: A good equipped and well led party.

Two men aged 34 years and 47 years from Sheffield and Keighly respectively, collapsed with exhaustion and exposure at the summit of Bowfell, Langdale. Both men were given 'Reviva' treatment (hot air). The team carried one on a stretcher and the other under his "own steam" to Angle Tarn, where a helicopter from RAF Boulmer took them both to Keswick Hospital.
Footnote: This was a long distance walk organised by five different bodies, including Copeland Recreation and Amenities Committee, over some of the highest mountains in England. With the option of smaller distances the longest was 38 miles - total ascent 7000 ft. within the day. Due to bad weather the walk went very wrong, in fact stories of near disaster have been told. The Lake District Mountain Accidents Association and Search Panel, plus the Wardens discourage this type of walk.

A 16 year old schoolgirl from Southport had a recurrence of an old knee injury. Collapsed with pain near Harrison Stickle, Langdale. Team carried her down on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Lancaster Hospital.
Footnote: Footwear bad (smoothed sole shoes). She had a history of a bad knee, the long walk could have aggravated injury. The grass on fellside was slippery due to dry weather.

A 27 year old man from Preston left the Jack's Rake path on Pavey Ark, Langdale by mistake and found himself going up a loose stone gulley, he pulled a large stone on himself and fractured his right leg/ankle. The team roped the stretcher and it was taken to the top of Pavey Ark. He was carried down the fell and then to hospital by ambulance to Kendal.
Footnote: Jack's Rake is becoming more loose very year, and at the time of this rescue it was in a dangerous condition.

A 68 year old woman of York slipped on dry grass slope at Dow Bank, Silver Howe, Chapel Stile and fractured her right ankle. She was carried on a stretcher down the fellside, taken to the Ambleside doctor and then by sitting car to Hospital at Lancaster.
Footnote: The grass slopes were very slippy indeed, and the boots worn had only a slight tread.

A 22 year old man of Harrow collapsed while walking at Lilley Tarn, Loughrigg, Ambleside. Team searched the area, but could not find the victim at Lilley Tarn. Found later near the bottom of a track leading off Loughrigg. Treated by doctor, possible epileptic fit. Allowed home. Footnote: There were two rescues at the same time.

A 21 year old man from Bootle collapsed due to exhaustion and possible epileptic fit whilst walking near the summit of Harrison Stickle, Langdale.

He was carried down on a stretcher after being seen by team doctor at the scene. Allowed to go home after being carried down.
Footnote: Assisted in the rescue by RAF Stafford. There seems a little mystery about this rescue — our team was called after a delay.

A 16 year old youth from Cromer fell about 30 ft. while leading the first pitch on Upper Scout Crag, Langdale. He received head and leg injuries and was conveyed down the fell on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Kendal Hospital.
Footnote: The rock was "greasy" but the youth elected to wear P.A.'s.

A 22 year old man and a 16 year old youth from Whitef ield, Nr. Bury collapsed with exposure at Rossett Ghyll, Langdale. Both were re-warmed at the scene and then carried down the fell on a stretcher, then to Kendal Hospital by ambulance. The weather was gale force winds, heavy rain, low mist, swollen rivers and becks. Very cold.
Footnote: Both had very poor clothing. Hush puppy type shoes, smooth soles. The 16 year old boy had fallen into the beck twice. Never been on the fells before.

A 52 year old woman from Fleetwood slipped and fell on wet ground near Low Pike, Ambleside. She fractured her right ankle. Carried down on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Kendal Hospital.
Footnote: The fellside was very wet making ground conditions very slippery indeed. Well led party.

A 28 year old man from Australia was reported missing after he had been rock climbing with friends on Pavey Ark, Langdale. The team was called out, and after a search found him at the bottom of Pavey Ark waiting for his friends.
Footnote: The rest of the team was assisting Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team at the time of recue no. 9.

The team went to assist the Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team when a 43 year old man from Leicester collapsed and died at the head of Deepdale in the Greenhowe area. RAF Boulmer attended.
Footnote: This man just went along to make the party up. He had no experience of walking. Blizzard conditions on the fells, deep snow on the high fells.

A 21 year old man from London was walking with a party from Leeds University when he became exhausted and suffered exposure at Upper Mosedale. Lost his way in the darkness. He had walked from Langdale - Scafell and was returning the same way.
Footnote: The day was cold, wet and snow on the tops. Smooth soles shoes. Was his first walk in Lakeland. Inadequate clothing. No torch. Informants had no idea where he was.

A 24 year old woman from Newcastle upon Tyne slipped and fell 300ft. while climbing a snow gulley on Hanging Knotts, Bowfell. She sustained serious multiple head injuries from which she died. RAF Boulmer attended.
Footnote: This young lady was experienced and well equipped, it appears she overbalanced.

A search was made of the Langdale Pikes when two medical students from Cardiff University failed to report to friends at Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, Langdale. Found safe at 10.30a.m. (8.2.76). They had dug a snow hole at Troughton Ghyll, Langdale and stayed there all night. Search panel involved.
Footnote: This is a classic in two ways:—
1. They went off never telling their friends where they were going, the friends became concerned for their safety and together with the police called the mountain rescue team.
2. The fells are free and the individual is free to decide whatever he or she wants.

A 20 year old man from London fell about 100 ft. while leading a pitch on Raven Crag, Langdale. He sustained serious multiple head and internal injuries.Carried down the fell on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Lancaster Royal Infirmary.
Footnote: The rock was "greasy" and wet. The facts attained at the time were little or no knowledge of rock climbing, no helmet worn, ordinary fell boots.

A 61 year old woman from Preston slipped and fell on ice covered path near Loughrigg Terrace, Rydal — possible fractured ankle.
Carried by stretcher to an awaiting ambulance and then to Hospital at Kendal.
Footnote: The ground was frozen solid making fell boots of little use to an inexperienced walker.

A 16 year old youth from Kendal was carried down by stretcher after collapsing at Grisedale tarn, Grasmere. Treated by doctor at Traveller's Rest Inn, Grasmere, recovered and went home with parents.
Footnote: The victims friends made him walk from below Fairfield summit to Grisedale Tarn not knowing that this was contrary to exposure treatment.

The search panel called all teams in Lakeland to search for two teenage boys from the Barrow-in-Furness area, who were missing on a walk from Eskdale to Borrowdale.
Both boys found Dead at Scafell Pike summit, they had died from exposure.
Footnote: From the 3rd January the mountain conditions were very bad, blizzards, gale force winds, deep snow and ice — very cold.

A 41 year old woman from Oldham became benighted at Rossett Ghyll after setting out from Borrowdale at 3 p.m. to walk to Langdale. The team with two dogs searched from Stake Pass to Angle Tarn and Rossett Ghyll and the woman was found at 3.30 a.m. the next morning, 29th December, half way up Rossett Ghyll. She was unharmed. Footnote: This woman started from Borrowdale alone to do a four hour walk at 3 p.m. — with one hour of daylight left, and her fell walking experience should have told her not to attempt such a foolish thing. It was very fortunate that she stayed put when her torch batteries ran out, because she was just a few footsteps away from a ten foot drop when she was found by the team. The weather was cold, with intermittent rain, and wet under foot.

A 14 year old schoolboy from Wigan slipped and fell on wet grass, at Black Crag, Great Langdale. He sustained a severely lacerated leg and mild exposure, and the team carried him down the fell on a stretcher and then he was taken to the doctor's surgery for treatment. Footnote: If a weather forecast had been sought before this party set off, they might never have been at 1500 feet where this accident happened. Only low level walks should have been attempted on this day — a matter of simple common sense. The weather was cold and very wet with low mist.

A search was made of Stone Arthur and Tongue Ghyll, Grasmere, after lights had been reported flashing near the summit of Stone Arthur. The team found that two campers had been pitching their tent by torch light. Footnote: This was a false alarm with good intent. The weather was cold and dry but clear.

A 31 year old woman from Ambleside was reported missing after she went walking with her two pet dogs about 3 p.m. earlier that day. She was found dead at Ivy Crag, Loughrigg at 1.00 p.m. the following day, 10th October. Her body was flown by helicopter to Ambleside by R.A.F. Boulmer. Footnote: The team searched throughout the night in very bad conditions and were joined at first light by Coniston M.R.T. and the Search Dog Association. Help was given by teams from Cockermouth, Keswick, and Patterdale as well as Brathay Hall centre and Charlotte Mason College and the search concentrated on Loughrigg. This was not a fell walking accident. The weather was cold with heavy rain during the night

A 46 year old man from Keighley collapsed and died on Thunacar Knott, Langdale. A helicopter from R.A.F. Acklington was called but not required. The body was carried down the fell by the team. Footnote: The helicopter was called out to assist on information received before the team set off up the hill. Two rescues were taking place at the same time (no.32). The weather was dull, dry but cold on the tops.

A 29 year old man from Rainford collapsed on the Band, Langdale, with severe chest pains and was carried down by the team on a stretcher and taken to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: This incident occured whilst the team was already involved with another rescue. The weather was dry, with cold winds, and dull.

A 51 year old man from Redditch collapsed with a heart attack at Stickle Tarn, Langdale, his condition was very serious and both team doctors decided that a helicopter would be the best form of evacuation to hospital. Footnote: Once again R.A.F. Acklington made the rescue journey easy in a situation where a stretcher carry could have been too long and exhausting for the sick man. The weather was fairly good, with intermittent low mist, and dull at times.

A 53 year old woman from Solihull slipped on a footpath in Mill Ghyll, Langdale, and fractured her left ankle. She was carried down the fell on a stretcher and taken to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: Her footwear (flat soft soled shoes) could have been the cause of her slipping. She had no intention of walking on the felts. The weather was fine, warm and dry.

A 19 year old rock climber from Coventry slipped and fell off a foot-path at White Ghyll, Langdale after completing his rock climb. He sustained a broken left leg. The team carried him down the fell on a stretcher and then he was taken to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: In common with nearly all accidents involving climbers this year, the rock climb had been completed safely, but the descent is proving to be an accident habit. The weather was warm clear and dry.

An apprentice soldier aged 17 years from Poole slipped and fell 60 feet on Gimmer Crag, Langdale whilst descending after a rock climb, he sustained multiple injuries to head and spine. The team doctor called for an R.A.F. helicopter from Acklington to fly the injured boy to hospital from the crag. Footnote: Once again the accident happened after the completion of a climb. The weather was warm, dry, clear and sunny.

A search of Tongue Ghyll, Grasmere was made by team members and two search dogs after four young boys had heard whistle blasts and seen a yellow coloured coat high on the fells. After three hours the search was called off and nothing was found. Footnote: There was no explanation for the whistles, but the yellow coloured coat could have been a sheep which had been sheared and newly dyed. However, the team did by chance find four school girls from Blackpool as they were leaving the fell coming down from Grisedale Tarn. These girls were wearing highly unsuitable footwear and clothing, and two shoes had no heels, and one shoe no sole. They had walked from Patterdale to Grasmere in this gear. The team escorted and carried the girls down the fell and then took them to a Grasmere Y.H.A. The weather was very wet, with low mist.

A young child fell and suffered unknown injuries in Mickleden, Great Langdale. The team searched Mickleden but was informed that the parents had carried the child down the fell. Footnote: No comments

A 50 year old man from Falmouth slipped on wet rocks and fractured his ankle at Rest Gill, Langdale. The team carried him down on a stretcher and he was taken to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: This accident happened at 3 p.m. on a Saturday afternoon, but the team was not called out until 8.30 p.m. — some 5 hours later. The reason for this delay is a mystery both to the police and the team, but his walking companion tried to get help from some friends in the area.

A 17 year old youth from Merseyside fell about 40 feet whilst he was under instruction during an abseil. The belay point did not hold, and he sustained spinal and leg injuries and lacerations. He was carried down the fell on a stretcher and taken to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: This was an accident that should never have happened, because this novice should have had a safety top rope whilst under instruction. The weather was warm, with clear skies, and dry.

A 15 year old boy collapsed with exhaustion and migraine at the summit of Stake Pass, Langdale. The team carried the boy, who came from Thetford, Norfolk, down the fell on a stretcher and he was treated by the team doctor before being allowed home. Footnote: This group had been well trained to cope with mishaps on the fells, and they did everything correctly. The weather was overcast with rain at times and the ground was very wet underfoog.

A search was made of Easedale Tarn and surrounding crags after a party of five had heard 'cries for help'. Team members with three dogs from the Search and Rescue Association searched but found nothing. The search was called off at 3.30 a.m. on 2nd July. Footnote: Once again nothing was found, and it was a false alarm with good intent. The weather was warm, dry and clear.

A novice rock climber aged 22 from Berwick-orv Tweed slipped and fell about 15 feet into a gulley on Raven Crag, Langdale. She sustained a broken leg and the team carried her down on a stretcher and she was taken to hospital at Kendal. Footnote: This was a well equipped climbing party under very good supervision, and the incident was a genuine accident. The weather was very warm, clear and sunny and dry.

A search was made of Loughrigg Summit when a man had heard cries for help. After two and a half hours the search was called off and nothing was found. Footnote: This was a false alarm with good intent. The weather was very warm, clear and dry.