Visitors to Helvellyn are warned it is still in winter condition. Photo: Bob Smith/grough
A rescue team has welcomed the increase in popularity of a Lake District mountain following its television vote as top peak in Britain.
But Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team warned that visitors to Helvellyn need to know the fell is in full winter condition and its ascent should only be attempted by those capable of dealing with such terrain and weather.
A team spokesperson said: “The recent ITV programme Britain’s Best Walks, presented by Julia Bradbury, has already begun to attract people to Helvellyn which will be great.
“However, please help Patterdale MRT to warn people, ahead of the Easter rush, that Helvellyn should only be attempted by those who have the experience, skills and knowledge to tackle this mountain in winter.
Julia Bradbury was featured on Helvellyn in television programme
“We do want people to enjoy the Lakes and tackle Britain’s best walk when the weather is good. The base will be open on Easter Sunday and Monday for those who are looking for something to do.
“Please do keep an eye on the forecast and the felltop reports and make good decisions to keep yourselves safe.
“Please do share this in the hope that those who are not equipped or experienced choose more appropriate routes this weekend.”
A Lake District-specific mountain weather forecast is available on the Weatherline website, along with terrain, temperature, wind and other reports from the Lake District’s three felltop assessors who between them make the ascent of Helvellyn every day during winter, up to Easter.
Patterdale MRT said: “If you need mountain rescue this weekend please dial 999 and ask for mountain rescue. We will always respond.”
Richard Callard
30 March 2018Why is it I get a horrible feeling that the MRTs will be busy this weekend. Putting out these messages is great but I feel they are not getting through to the people who need them. The majority of people who read these forums/sites are all ready aware of the conditions. I don`t have an answer to the problem but fingers crossed the MRTs are not too busy over the Easter break and can enjoy time with family and friends.
Roger
30 March 2018Yep the message is not reaching the ill prepared or novices.
How about using some temporary electronic signs on the approach roads to highlight Fell conditions and accident/injury statistics to highlight the dangers? In the same way that these signs are used on dangerous roads to raise awareness or in some countries to advise on snow conditions.
hughwestacott
30 March 2018I'm afraid that I think it deplorable that certain routes are promoted because a tiny proportion of the walking fraternity vote them as their favourite. Such polls are entirely bogus because they lack intellectual rigour. It is even worse when a so-called celebrity is involved. I believe that there have been several accidents and at least one death after the BBC popularized Priests Hole. I fear that there will now be even more casualties and MRT rescues on Helvellyn.
RayH
01 April 2018In view of Easter being early this year, I don't think that ITV screening " Britain's Favourite Walks" on 30 January was a good idea.
Ian
02 April 2018In reply to Roger.
That's a sound idea. Maybe temporary notices in car parks and lay-bys as well?
heidi
02 April 2018Coming down Striding Edge yesterday, there were literally dozens of people without ice axe and crampons, despite the recent accidents and the fact that you can see from the valley that the mountains are in winter conditions. Some people even had little toddy children with them. The message just doesn't seem to be getting across
Martin Burkinshaw
02 April 2018Maybe one method, would be to put the 6 figure Grid Reference, on finger-posts. At least that way, a person would be able to orientate the map.