The cyclist crashed while descending the Honister Pass. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

A cyclist has died after crashing on a Lake District pass.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was called out to the incident on the Honister Pass about 12.25pm on Saturday.

The Great North Air Ambulance and ambulance paramedics also went to the scene, west of Honister Slate Mine.

A Keswick MRT spokesperson said the 27-year-old was descending the pass with his friend on a dry, sunny day when he lost control of his bike and fell, suffering severe injuries.

“Two passing off-duty medics immediately provided assistance and in a short time Cumbria police, mountain rescue, and air ambulance teams arrived and tried to resuscitate the casualty,” the spokesperson said.

“Sadly, and despite a sustained effort, nothing could be done to save him. Our thoughts and sympathies go out to the man’s family and friends.”

The rescue lasted just over three hours and involved 14 volunteers from Keswick MRT.