Rescuers in action on Helvellyn. Photo: Patterdale MRT

A hypothermic walker was airlifted from England’s third highest summit after becoming benighted.

Fourteen volunteers from Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team were involved in the incident on Helvellyn on Wednesday.

Rescuers said temperatures on the mountain were about 1C-2C, but strong westerly winds, gusting to 35mph, and with snow falling, made it feel closer to -4C.

The team was alerted at 6.30pm. The walker was unable to descend the mountain safely in the dark and summit conditions were deteriorating. Team members ascended the mountain by various routes, converging on the summit.

A spokesperson said: “The casualty was located, assessed, and found to be suffering from hypothermia.

“Given the conditions and the casualty’s medical state, a Coastguard helicopter was requested and, in what can only be described as exceptional flying in extremely difficult conditions, airlifted the casualty to hospital.”

The Patterdale MRT volunteers stood down at 1.15am, after a callout of 6¾ hours.

Team leader Matt Cox said: “Visitors to the Lakes are reminded that the weather on the high fells can often be far more serious than that in the valley bottom.

“With the clocks going back this weekend, the team would urge anyone heading into the hills to carry a torch and spare batteries. Being caught out by darkness is one of the most common reasons we are called out.

“Check the mountain weather forecast before you set off, not just the forecast for the valley, and be prepared to turn back if conditions change. The summit will still be there another day.

“We would like to extend our huge thanks to the Coastguard helicopter crew for their greatly appreciated assistance. Their skill and professionalism in terrible weather made a very significant difference to the outcome of this incident.

“We wish the casualty a swift recovery.”