Conditions on the mountain were extreme. Photo: Keswick MRT

A walker was rescued after getting lost in high winds and wintry conditions on England’s third-highest mountain.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was alerted about midday by a friend of the 40-year-old man who got into difficulties after summiting Helvellyn via Striding Edge.

A team spokesperson said: “Attempts to speak to the man on his phone were hindered by the very strong wind making communication impossible.

“Attempts to locate him by tracing the location of his mobile phone proved unsuccessful as his phone wasn’t set up to share location data.”

Five team members set off from Swirls on the western side of the mountain and made the ascent of the 950m (3,117ft) fell.

The spokesperson said: “Conditions from halfway up the mountain were extreme. The local weather forecast was spot on, with 50-60mph winds and blowing snow making visibility very poor and with the very real risk of being blown over.

“Ice-axes and crampons were essential for safe travel. The missing person was located sheltering behind the memorial at the top of Striding Edge. Fortunately he was suitably dressed and no worse for wear.

“He was escorted down to Scales car park where a team member kindly drove him around to Glenridding where he had left his car.”

The 3¾-hour rescue involved 14 volunteers from Keswick MRT.