A party of three was rescued from Snowdon after taking an evening walk up the mountain to visit the café – which was pulled down last year.

The two men and a woman, described by mountain rescuers as ‘poorly equipped’ were found by an RAF helicopter using a thermal-imaging camera after they phoned emergency services around 10pm.

The walkers were trapped on the Pyg Track and were said to be wearing jeans and sweatshirts. There are prominent signs at the start of the track warning that there are no facilities at Snowdon summit at present.

The three were found by Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team (MRT), which had 22 members involved in the search. They were cold and had no torch or shelter. They were walked to safety by members of the team about 1.45am, the Sea King helicopter from RAF Valley being prevented from landing or winching the party from the mountain by thundery weather.

Llanberis MRT warned of the dangers of venturing into the mountains without appropriate clothing and equipment. Dr Gwyn Roberts of the team said: “Despite the warm valley weather recently, conditions on Snowdon can be very different.  As always, preparation and planning are crucial.
“Some experienced walkers do begin ascending the mountain at this time of day when the weather is good because the paths are quieter. But they are always well prepared with spare clothing and torches.

The old Snowdon summit café was demolished last year and work has started on the new Hafod Eryri visitor centre which will grace the summit and is due for completion later this year. You can keep up-to-date with progress via the Snowdonia-Active blog, complete with pictures.

Related link: Llanberis Mountain Rescue