The injured runner was airlifted from Little Man, right, on Skiddaw. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

A rescue team was delayed reaching an injured fellrunner because of badly parked vehicles.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was called out about 12.30pm on Saturday when a 16-year-old girl fell during a race on Skiddaw.

She was reported to be unresponsive near the summit of Little Man.

A team spokesperson said: “The team sent a Land Rover as an initial response, while requesting the assistance of an air ambulance, given the distance from the road and the possible serious nature of the incident.

“Fortunately the Great North Air Ambulance was able to be airborne right away, as the Land Rover was delayed by 10 to 15 minutes by thoughtless parking along the single track Gale Road, by spectators and competitor supporters.

“Once up to the car park, the team then set off for the casualty site, as a back-up to the helicopter.

“Fortunately, the helicopter crew was able to muster enough people to assist them in loading the casualty aboard the helicopter, and she could then be flown to hospital for treatment. The team then stood down.”

The incident involved eight team members for almost two hours.