The couple got into difficulties in bad weather on Helvellyn. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

Rescuers in the Lake District were put on alert after two walkers got into difficulties on England’s third highest mountain.

The couple called for help after losing their way in a whiteout on Helvellyn on Tuesday.

The pair were unable to find the path to descend from the mountain’s summit in rapidly deteriorating weather after making the ascent from Glenridding.

Police alerted Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team, whose duty leader unsuccessfully attempted to contact the couple by phone. A team spokesperson said: “Due to this the rest of the team were put on standby while further information was gathered.

“Eventually contact was made with the couple. They had been given directions by another party of walkers and were heading off the summit towards Dollywagon Pike and Grisedale Tarn.

“The duty leader kept checking on the couple and a couple of hours later it was established they were off the hill and back at their car safe and well.”