The dog 'froze' while tackling Sharp Edge

Rescuers have warned of the dangers of taking dogs on a Lake District ridge after two women and their animal had to be roped to safety.

The pair, aged 25 and 26, rang for help after getting stuck on Sharp Edge, Blencathra, yesterday when their collie dog ‘froze’ on the route, a grade-one scramble, and would not move.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was called out about 2.30pm and 20 members were involved in the operation to get the group to safety.

A team spokesperson said when the dog refused to budge, the women and the animal then all began suffering from the cold in squally showers.

The spokesperson said: “The team sent out a small group, while others stood by in case further numbers were needed.”

The walkers and their dog were roped off the edge and walked down to Mousthwaite Comb in an operation lasting more than three hours.

The spokesperson said: “Sharp Edge is a serious undertaking.

“It is notoriously slippery in wet weather, and for some days after.

“Managing a dog on the edge, and the ribs above, is very difficult, especially in poor conditions, and often puts the owner at risk from being pulled off.”