The pair got lost on Lingmell on Middleboot Knotts, above Piers Gill

Two walkers were rescued after getting lost in the dark on England’s highest mountain.

The pair called for help yesterday about 7.45pm and Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team was alerted.

The couple got lost in the area around Middleboot Knotts below Scafell Pike and became benighted.

Rescuers spoke to the walkers to try to guide them off the mountain but had to mount a search of the area when this failed.

A team spokesperson said: “They were found between Middleboot Knotts and the Corridor Route and walked back to Wasdale.

“We have them a lift back to our base before they got a taxi back to their car in Borrowdale.”

The incident ended about 1am today and involved 14 volunteer members of the team. It was Wasdale MRT’s 61st callout this year.