Rescuers at the scene on the western slopes of Helvellyn. Photo: Keswick MRT

A walker was rescued after injuring himself when his crampon points stuck in ice, causing him to trip.

The 61-year-old was with his son-in-law on the slopes of Helvellyn on Wednesday when he fell awkwardly and injured his ankle.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was called out about 2.10pm. A team spokesperson said: “With the help of his companion, he attempted to make his way down the Swirls path, but found it impossible.

“The initial call went to Patterdale MRT but was quickly transferred as they looked at the location.

“Keswick team then went out to Swirls car park, and made their way up to the casualty who was near the end of the wall bounding the Brown Cove area.

The injured walker is stretchered down the hillside. Photo: Keswick MRT

“He was given analgesia, and then lowered and sledged down to the car park in very icy conditions. There he was transferred to his son-in-law’s car to be driven to hospital in Lancaster, which fitted in with their travel plans.”

The spokesperson added: “Conditions on the hill were full winter, and intending walkers should be suitably equipped with crampons and ice-axe.”

Fourteen Keswick MRT volunteers were involved in the 3¼-hour rescue.