Rescuers were called to walkers lost in low cloud. Photo: Cockermouth MRT

Rescuers were called to walkers lost in low cloud. Photo: Cockermouth MRT

Rescuers in the Lake District who were called out to find two lost walkers found two more disoriented hikers after locating the first pair.

Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team warned hillgoers to be prepared for changing conditions after a week that included a heatwave and low cloud and poor visibility.

The team was alerted about 4.20pm on Saturday after two walkers called for help between Black Sail youth hostel in Ennerdale and Borrowdale. The pair got lost near Great Gable in low cloud.

A Cockermouth MRT spokesperson said: “The team narrowed down the location of the casualties and advised them to stay in their current position to maintain phone signal, then dispatched team members towards Great Gable from both Black Sail and Honister Slate Mine.

“Several Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team members were in the vicinity and located the casualties at approximately 6.15pm. They were then met by Cockermouth and walked out to Honister Slate Mine.

“While en route back to the mine, the team discovered two more hikers who had become lost in the cloud and escorted all four safely off the fell.”

The team said it was the second callout of the week. “It is vital that walkers check weather conditions before setting off, are adequately equipped and confident in their ability to navigate, whatever the weather,” the spokesperson said.

Deputy team leader Martin Pickavance added: “Wasdale and Cockermouth teams worked excellently to locate the casualties quickly.

“In the changeable weather we have been experiencing recently, walkers shouldn’t underestimate the strenuous nature of the fells, and should be prepared for very quick changes in conditions.”

The rescue involved 15 Cockermouth MRT volunteers and lasted six hours.

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