The crash happened near Foule Crag on Blencathra. Photo: Keswick MRT

A paraglider has died after crashing on Blencathra.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team said the man was a friend to a number of its members and was a well known figure in the Lakes paragliding community.

The team was alerted shortly after 2pm on Sunday after several walkers contacted police after witnessing the incident near Foule Crag.

Helicopters from the Great North Air Ambulance Service and the Coastguard airlifted team members onto the mountain, close to the crash site.

A Keswick MRT spokesperson said: “RAF Mountain Rescue Service were training in the area and also responded. A helimed doctor and Keswick team member were lowered to the paraglider pilot but unfortunately nothing could be done to save the man.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences go to the man’s family and friends.”

The spokesperson thanked the two helicopter crews and RAF team members for their support. The incident lasted 3¾ hours and involved 22 Keswick MRT volunteers.