A 51 year old man from Manchester collapsed whilst walking with his sons. He suffered a FATAL heart attack. The Team located the body on Mart Crag Moor and conveyed it down the fellside. A helicopter from R.A.F. Boulmer was called, but not required.
The Team were called when a 18 year old soldier from Merseyside fell 40ft. and suffered FATAL injuries whilst abseiling. The belay point, one small 'Nut Sling', pulled out of crack. NO safety rope or helmet used.
The Team went to the assistance of a 24 year old man from Farnborough, who fell and suffered shock, head and hand injuries. Friends escorted him down the Fell. Found by team and treated by Team Doctor at Stool End Farm.
A search was mounted after 2 adults and a child from Blackpool failed to turn up from a fell walk. Found at 3.15 a.m. in Rossett Ghyll. No torches, only a box of matches to guide rescuers to scene. Set off 1.15 p.m. for Scafell. Millom Team and S.A.R.D.A. assisted.
The Team were called to assist a 17 year old female Police Cadet from Stockport, who fell 30? whilst under instruction and suffered face/head and arm, leg injuries. Evacuated through flooded section of old Quarry.
A 58 year old man from Preston suffered a FATAL heart attack whilst out walking with a group. A search was mounted to locate the body, as the group had left the scene.
A Boys Brigade Expedition requested help when two of their party, aged 17 and 18 from Kemston, suffered ankle injuries and blisters/exhaustion/exposure. A mini search ensued to find the rest of the group. The rescue was on at the same time as No. 34 above.
The Team went to the assistance of a 14 year old boy from Weston-Super-Mare, who suffered a leg injury and severely blistered feet, through wearing poor fitting boots.
The Team went to the assistance of a 14 year old boy from Weston-Super-Mare, who suffered a leg injury and severely blistered feet, through wearing poor fitting boots.
A report of flares seen on The Band, Langdale. The Team investigated and found a 49 year old female from Sheffield, who had slipped on wet stones, and suffered torn ligaments in her left leg.
The Team were called to assist a 19 year old from Oldham who collapsed with exhaustion due to Anorexia Nervosa. Condition aggravated by lack of food intake for expedition.
The Team were called to assist a 19 year old youth from Cheltenham, who suffered an ankle injury. Coniston Team called to assist. Found 10.20 p.m. at Leverswater, Coniston, 2 miles from original reference.
The Team were called to evacuate a 19 year old Essex girl after being thrown from her horse. She suffered severe head injuries and was unconscious. She was in critical condition for several weeks.
A 14 year old schoolboy from Chorley fell 80ft. off a grass terrace, and suffered head, back and leg injuries. Smooth soled boots caused the accident to this poorly equipped party.
A search was mounted for 7 retarded/semi blind adults lost on a walk. Found Mickleden, unharmed but very tired. (Apologies for the terminology, transcribed directly from 1980 report, and hopefully demonstrating how things have changed!!)
Two schoolgirls aged 17 from Wigan and Leigh suffered exposure and exhaustion. Both were weak due to poor feeding at camp. A poorly equipped schoolparty.
A search was mounted for a 14 year old girl from Hawkshead, missing since tea-time. Found at 3.00 a.m. dazed and shocked. Thrown from her horse at 7 p.m. Forestry workers assisted.
A 14 year old girl from Carlisle stumbled and fell 30ft. into open quarry hole. She suffered spinal and leg injuries. Team evacuated her through flooded sections of the quarry.
A 14 year old girl suffered from an asthmatic attack. When the team reached her, she had recovered. A 13 year old boy in the party had injured his ankle, and had to be evacuated by stretcher.
The Team were called to assist a 13 year old A.T.C. cadet from Leyland who suffered shock, head and leg injuries when he fell on screes. Poor footwear a possible cause of accident.
The Team went to the assistance of a 62 year old female from Birkenhead, who fell whilst descending over boulders. She suffered a fractured left leg, lacerations to both legs, shock and mild exposure.
During a cadet exercise, a 16 year old youth stumbled on snow covered boulders and suffered a fractured ankle. The Team were called to assist, as Wrynose Pass was blocked by snow.
A 38 year old man from Loughborough fell 30ft., and sustained severe bruising and shock whilst trying to climb fresh snow. The Team were called to evacuate the inexperienced party, who had no ropes or crampons, from the top section of the Gulley.
A search was mounted for a 19 year old female from Cornwall. S.A.R.D.A. and Patterdale Team assisted. Found by search dog at 4 a.m. suffering from advanced exposure. A helicopter from R.A.F. Boulmer flew her to Whitehaven Hospital.
A massive search involving many Rescue Teams to find a male fellwalker with severe exposure on Great End. A five day search ended when the body was located under 4ft. of snow off Ill Crag by one of the dogs.
The Team and RAF Leeming M.R.T. assisted Police to recover the body of a Kendal woman and injured child from wreckage of a car, which skidded on heavy snow and rolled down a 60? embankment.
A search was mounted to find 4 climbers overdue from Great End Gulleys. Assisted Wasdale Team, and searched Sty Head to Langdale. Found Brotherikeld, Eskdale.
A search was mounted for a male climber reported overdue. The Team, assisted by Kendal and Keswick Teams searched Great End and Bowfell areas. Found unharmed 9.30 a.m. on 14th January 1980.Lost in darkness, no torch carried.
The Team were called to assist a 41 year old female from Ormskirk, who sustained a fractured lower leg when she slipped on snow/ice covered track. Located on the Tongue Ghyll path, Grasmere.
The Team were called to assist a 48 year old female from Blackpool, who sustained a fractured right leg when she slipped and fell on an ice covered path.
The Team were called out to assist a 22 year old woman from Salisbury after she had fallen 600' descending an ice gulley. She sustained spinal and head injuries plus pelvic and leg injuries. She had no Ice Axe or Crampons. Footnote: When snow and ice conditions prevail an Ice Axe and Crampons are essential. It is, however, vital that the person knows how to use this equipment. The "Sea King" crew must be praised for their effort on this rescue for not only were they operating in very poor conditions but also assisted on two other rescues that night.
The Team were called out to search for a 23 year old woman and a 19 year old man from Burton-on-Trent and Tatbury after they had been reported overdue at Langdale by a friend. They had been on a walk to Scafell. After searching all night they were found safe and well at 9-00 a.m. on 24th December. Footnote: This couple had a tent with them and night caught them out on the tops so they camped at "Langdale Comb". They seemed rather cold but otherwise O.K. Weather Conditions: Snow and Sleet, Cold, Mist, Ice Underfoot, also Wet.
The Team went to the assistance of a 27 year old woman from Waiter, York who had a knee and leg injury. She was taken home by a companion for treatment. Weather Conditions: Dull Drizzle, Cold, Very Wet Underfoot.
The Team went to the assistance of a 27 year old woman from Waiter, York who had a knee and leg injury. She was taken home by a companion for treatment. Weather Conditions: Dull Drizzle, Cold, Very Wet Underfoot.
The Team went to the assistance of a 21 year old man from Grasmere who had injured his leg. After being seen by the Team Doctor he was allowed home. Weather Conditions: Very Cold and Clear, Snow on frozen paths.
The Team were called out to assist a 45 year old man from Barrow-in-Furness after he had slipped and fallen about 50' on black ice. He sustained broken ribs and cuts, etc. He was well equipped and an experienced walker. Weather Conditions: Very Cold, Clear and Frosty, Ice Underfoot.
It was reported that a 14 year old boy from Stapleford, Notts., had collapsed from exposure but when the Team arrived at Gt. Rigg Man there was nobody there. He had been escorted down to Grasmere by his friends. Footnote: This was a "wild goose chase". In fact we were so concerned that we called in a Helicopter that was on a practice flight in the area to search for this young man. Weather Conditions: Hail and Sleet, Cold, Windy, Frozen Ground.
The Team were called out to search for 2 adults aged 48 and 28 years and 9 Cadets average age 17 years from Wealdston and Harrow area. They were all safe and well (just) at 2-30 a.m. on 29th October. They had no idea where they were and navigation was very poor as was their equipment.
A search was called for two youths from Ashstead and High Field in Surrey. They were found safe and well at 6-20 a.m. on 24th October. Poor navigation had resulted in them "getting lost" so they had decided to go to ground for the night. Weather Conditions: Cold and Wet Underfoot.
The Team went to the assistance of a 28 year old man from Wakefleld who had fractured his leg when he was Trial riding. He had hit a rock and been thrown off the machine. Footnote: Garburn seems to be a training ground for this type of sport — so" endeth a busy day".
The Team went to recover the body of a 24 year old man from Manchester who had slipped while descending the grass footpath after finishing his rock climb. He fell 200'. Footnote: This man had "E.B.s" (a smooth soled rock boot) on which could have been the cause of him to fall. It was later learned that he was a novice climber. Weather Conditions: Cold, Wet, Rain at times. Wet Rock.
The Team went to the assistance of a 50 year old woman from Westhoughton, Bolton who had slipped on the wet fellside and fractured her leg. Footnote: With Rescue 29 just finished this was the start of a very busy day. Weather Conditions: Cold, Wet, Rain at times, Wet Underfoot.
A search was mounted for a 24 year old man from the Kirkstone Pass Inn, Ambleside after he failed to report for work at 12 noon. The man was found dead behind the Inn at 8-30 a.m. on 13th October. Footnote: 8 Mountain Rescue Teams, Search Dogs and an R.A.F. Helicopter from Boulmer took part in this search. Local Mines were searched by Mine Rescue Unit. Weather Conditions: Cold, Clear, Wet Underfoot.
The Team were called out to search for a lady who had separated from her husband on a walk from Thirlspot to Wythbum. The Team did not find her but she turned up safely in Grasmere. Footnote: A case of searching for someone before they were lost. Weather Conditions: Rain, Low Mist, Cool and Wet Underfoot.
A search was launched for two girls aged 9 and 8 years and a boy aged 11 years from Wane, Herts., after they had been allowed to run off and away from the adults in the party. They were found safe and well at 7-45 p.m. near Wrynose Bridge. Footnote: These children had shorts and Wellingtons. Very little protection against the weather that prevailed at the time. Weather Conditions: Low Mist, Showers, Very Wet Underfoot.
A 40 year old man from Carlisle was exploring a mine when the roof collapsed and he was buried 30' from the mine entrance. He sustained head, leg, arm and chest injuries. Footnote: This man had been warned by others that it was unsafe to go and explore due to dangerous state of roof, etc. lt took 4 hours to free the man by the Mine Rescue Unit. This comprises a section of our Team, the Keswick Team and the Kendal Team, plus the Helicopter from R.A.F. Boulmer which transported rescue mine equipment from the Cave Rescue Organisation at Clapham to Caldbeck.
The Team were called out to a 20 year old man from Huyton, Liverpool who had become "cragfast" so had jumped down 10' to a ledge, missed and fell. He sus¬tained a fractured left leg. Footnote: Passing walkers found this injured man, which was very lucky for him. He was walking solo off the path and in very bad conditions. Weather Conditions: Torrential Rain, Very Low Mist, Wet Rocks, etc.
The Team went to the assistance of a 13 year old boy from Gerrards Cross, Bucks., who was suffering from exhaustion. The rest of the group carried this boy "piggy back" to half way down Rossett Ghyll. Footnote: The journey attempted with this young boy was far too much — his condition proved it. Weather Conditions: Cold, Rain, Low Mist, Wet Ground.
The Team were called to the assistance of a 19 year old girl from Leigh-on-Sea, Essex when a dry stone wall she was climbing collapsed on top of her. She sus¬tained leg injuries and cuts. Footnote: This young lady should have found a better place to cross, in fact there was an easier place further on. Weather Conditions: Cold, Rain, Dull, Wet Underfoot.
The Team were called to assist two fourteen year old boys from Halifax and Grange-over-Sands after one had tumbled and knocked the other coming down the Screes. They sustained head wounds, arm and leg injuries. Weather Conditions: Cold, Rain, Dull, Wet Rocks and Ground.
The Team went to the assistance of a 77 year old man from Buxton who had suffered a Heart Attack. Footnote: This man was a very experienced walker. Weather Conditions: Warm, Sunny.
The Team went to bring off the fell a 53 year old man from Connetticut, U.S.A. who had suffered a Heart Attack. The man could have taken the wrong pills at the wrong time and this misuse of Drugs could bring on anxiety and stress. Footnote: Not the best of patients to bring off the fell. I thought women could talk!! After this rescue a large hammer has been added to our medical equipment. Weather Conditions: Warm, Sunny, Dry.
The team went to assist an 18 year old youth from Stockton, Cleveland after he decided to descend some very slippery rocks instead of using the path. He fells 250ft sustaining severe head, spine, leg and chest injuries.
Footnote: This young man was advised not to go on these rocks by by members of his party. RAF Boulmer was called in to fly him to hospital in Whitehaven. Weather conditions: Low mist, Cold wind, Rain, Very Wet on Rocks
The Team were called to assist a 56 year old man and a 54 year old woman from Ambleside who were overcome by heat?? There were other causes than 'heat' both were under Doctor's care. Footnote: This rescue could be 'classed' as a medical problem. The lady said that the low flying Military Aircraft had frightened her which caused her to fall. On reflection this could be a possibility. The noise and the element of surprise can give one a shock. I am afraid we have not heard the last of this 'new c&use' of accidents. Weather Conditions: Very Hot, Sunshine, Very Dry.
The Team went to the assistance of a 15 year old boy from Stevenage who had sustained head injuries. The informant gave Grid References at Sheep Crag — "i\ mi'les from the accident scene and the team had to search for a1 long time. Footnote: This was a badly organised school party. Weather Conditions: Cool Dull day.
A 27 year old woman from Sheffield fell about 60ft. while leading a pitch and the Belay failed. She sustained knee, thigh and pelvic injuries. Footnote: Her "second" failed to arrest her fall due to Belay failure.
The Team assisted an 18 year old youth from Grimsby down to the Old Dungecn Ghyll Hotel as he had an injured ankle. The accident happened at AH^n Crags. His friends had gone to Styhead for a stretcher. Footnote: No explanation was given why they went for a stretcher, which was never used and why they made the long journey to Langdale when there was an easier escape route off the fell. Weather Conditions: Cool, Fine, Dry, Wet Underfoot.
The Team recovered the body of a 74 year old man from Morecambe. It is not known if this man slipped and sustained head injuries or whether he had a medical condition which proved fatal.
The Team searched a long time for a 17 year old youth from Tewkesbury who sustained a sprained ankle as the informant was 1 mile out with his Grid Reference. Footnote: Grid References given by informants are usually wrong and can be anything up to 3 miles out. Weather Conditions: Cold and Low Mist, Drizzle, Snow Showers, very Wet on Fells.
A 24 year old man from Maidstone, Kent was abseiling and fell 40ft. — landing on his back and sustaining severe spinal injuries. The Team were called to assist. Footnote: He descended the last 50ft. too fast, out of control and fell. All the climbing equipment was in first class order. Weather Conditions: Warm, Sunny, Dry.
The Team went to the assistance of a 21 year old man from St. Helens who sus¬tained spinal, leg and head injuries. This man had training shoes on and poor clothing. He had no idea of fell walking. Footnote: He had fallen about 80ft — he was rather lucky because he could have fallen 600ft. on steep fellside. Once again poor footwear was the cause. Weather Conditions: Warm and Clear, Wet Rock and Grass.
The Team were called to the assistance of a 69 year old woman from Ormskirk who had fractured her lower leg. The informant took a long time to find his way down to raise the alarm — about a 1$ hour delay. Footnote: This lady had smooth fell boots on, which could have been the cause of her slipping. Weather Conditions: Sunny and Warm, Mud on path, Wet grass.
At the request of Kendal Team our Team searched the Kirkstone and Troutbeck area for 9 Cadets (Soldiers) who were found safe and well after a long search. Footnote: These Cadets were found in the Nan Bield area by the Kendal Team and one of our Dog Handlers. Weather Conditions: Low Mist, Sleet, Snow, Ice under old Snow.
A 31 year old man from Westcliffe-on-Sea had fallen about 300ft. from a main gulley onto snow sustaining head injuries and a possible fractured cheekbone. The Team escorted him down. Footnote: His injuries may have been caused by his Ice Axe. Another climber stopped him falling any further — very well equipped. Weather Conditions: Cold, Deep Snow, Ice, Clear.
The Police requested that the Team search a wider area for the lost equipment from Call-out No. 4 (previous day) but with negative results. It was three weeks before this man was identified.
The body of a 29 year old man from Wimbledon who was walking solo was found by three walkers. The Team recovered the body which was buried in snow. Footnote: No identity on this man, nothing was found at the scene. He had very poor equipment for conditions when found — jeans, poor anorak and fell boots only. Weather Conditions: Severe Blizzards, Deep Snow and Ice Cold.
The Team went to assist a man from Frodsham, Cheshire who had fractured his lower leg. This man was walking in Wellingtons and he had Rally type clothing on. Footnote: Team Members had to use Crampons to rescue this man who had no idea of the dangers that prevailed. This was the quickest rescue of the year — the Team was training 200 yards from him. Weather Conditions: Clear and Cold, Ice on all Footpaths.
A report was received of 3 men caught in an Avalanche. Search by Keswick Team all. night. They were found the next afternoon at Eskdale. Footnote: Team was taken by Helicopter (R.A.F. Boulmer) to the Central Gulley area (with Avalanche Probes) to assist Keswick, Wasdale and S.A.R.D.A. This was the first time we used the new "Sea King" Helicopter. Weather Conditions: Cold, Waist Deep Snow, Low Cloud.
This incident involved 2 Women, 1 Boy and a Dog (Afghan) from Kendal. Injuries sustained were exhaustion due to carrying the Dog. Team had to carry Dog on stretcher for 2 miles. Dog could not walk — snow "balling-up" on legs. Footnote: This party set off far too late to complete their journey in daylight. To take this type of Dog for a walk in deep snow was not wise. Weather Conditions: Dark, Cold, Deep Snow and Ice. ?
A 22 year old man from Liverpool collapsed with exposure/exhaustion while on a college expedition. His friends had escorted him most of the way down before the Team arrived. He then collapsed again at Stool End Farm, Langdale. The Team used the REVIVA on this man and carried him by Team transport to Ambleside, then by Ambulance to a Kendal hospital. Weather conditions: COLD, CLEAR, SNOW AND ICE ON THE TOPS, SNOW AND ICE UNDERFOOT.
A 21 year old man from Durham slipped and fell 80 ft while descending from after rock climb. He sustained two fractured femurs, head and spinal injuries. The Team carried him on stretcher then by ambulance to a Lancaster hospital. Footnote: Most climbing accidents seem to happen when climbers are descending after completion of a route. Weather conditions: COLD, RAINING, DULL, VERY WET ROCK
Nine students from Leeds were reported missing by friends when they failed to report at Langdale. The Team and SARDA made a search of the fells - at 12 midnight the students were found by the Team at Angle Tarn suffering from exposure. The Team escorted all nine to safety. They were seen by a Doctor and then taken to Windermere for baths and bed. Footnote: This party had little equipment and with the weather as it had been all day - appalling - they should never have started out - once again bad judgement. Weather conditions: HEAVY RAIN, LOW MIST, COLD, VERY WET UNDERFOOT
Four teenage schoolgirls and one female school teacher from Radcliffe, Manchester were reported lost by other members of the school party. The team searched from the Grasmere and Langdale sides of Stickle Tarn. The Team found this group at 8.30pm near Tarn Crag, Langdale they were escorted from the fellside.
A 71 year old female from High Wycombe slipped on the wet fellside and broke her left leg. She was carried on a stretcher, then by Team's Land Rover / ambulance to a Doctor in Ambleside. Footnote:This lady had smooth sol shoes which could have contributed to her fall. Weather conditions: DRY, CLEAR, WARM, WET UNDERFOOT
Four teenage ATC cadets from Chester le Street, Co. Durham required assistance when they became completely lost , and one was reported to be in a collapsed condition. A search was mounted by three MR teams and SARDA and they were found at 1.30am next morning. Three were escorted down - one had to be carried ona a stretcher. All were seen by the Team Doctor and allowed togo home after treatment. Footnote: The first grid reference for the location of casualties was about 2 miles out. Weather conditions: CLEAR, DARK, DRY, WARM, WET UNDERFOOT.
A 54 year old woman from Woodleigh, Berks. slipped off a path and broke her ankle. The team carried her on a stretcher down the fell and then by private transport to a Kendal hospital Weather conditions: FINE, DRY, CLEAR, WET IN PLACES
Two 18 year old youths from Kingston uopn Thames and Enfield collapsed with exposure/exhaustion at Martcrag Moor. One youth had to be carried on a stretcher, the other had to be assisted off the fell. Both recieved treatment in Langdale, neither went to hospital Footnote: This group decided to walk at high level when the weather was appalling. - their judgement was wrong- their word not ours - but we agree Weather condition: SEVERE GALES, RAIN, MIST DOWN TO 500ft., VERY WET UNDERFOOT
A 62 year old man from Leeds slipped and fell 30ft. down a fellside. He sustained a suspected broken neck, with severe head and spinal injuries. After the team had given first aid treatment a helicopter form RAF Boulmer flew him to hospital at Whitehaven Weather conditions: RAIN AT TIMES, MIST, DULL WET UNDERFOOT
A 43 year old man from South Shields slipped off a boulder hidden in bracken. He sustained a broken ankle. The team carried him on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Kednla hospital. Weather conditions: DRY, CLEAR, WARM, DRY UNDERFOOT
A 47 year old man from Cheam slipped on the wet fellside, and sustained an inured femur. He was carried on a stretcher by the team and then to hospital by ambulance Weather conditions: DRY, CLEAR, WARM, WET UNDERFOOT
Two climbers — one a 27 year old man from Warwick and a 15 year old girl from Birmingham, were descending after a rock climb. They both slipped and fell 150 ft. The young girl walked away with minor injuries but the man sustained a fractured pelvis, leg injuries ans spinal injuries. He was
Stretchered down by the team and then by ambulance to Kendal hospital.
A 63 year old man from Birmingham collapsed with an Heart Attack, some D of E boys assisted his wife at the scene. The Team carried him'off the hill by stretcher where he was seen by the Team Doctor, then to a Kendal hospital by ambulance.
Footnote: This man had a history of heart trouble, but had not had an attack for some time. Some good work was done by the D of E boys who were on an expedition.
Weather conditions: DRIZZLE, DULL, LOW MIST, WET UNDERFOOT.
A 15 year old youth from Ambleside slipped and fell on a footpath. He sustained an injured right ankle. The Team carried him on a stretcher and then by own transport to hospital.
Weather conditions: WARM, DULL, FINE, WET PATCHES UNDERFOOT.
A 14 year old boy from Seaford, Sussex fell 12 ft. from first pitch of a rock climb. He sustained injuries to the spine and arm. He was carried by the Team on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Kendal hospital.
Footnote: Incorrect use of a stitcht belay plate resulted in failure to arrest the fall.
Weather conditions: HOT, SUNNY, DRY, CLEAR, DRY ROCK.
A 40 year old woman from Holland was reported missing by the leader of a group of Dutch campers who were camping at Limefitt Park, Windermere. She had not been seen for two days prior to the search. Search was called off when she turned up at the camp site. She had been to CHESTER with two Americans.
Footnote: This woman had been taken by two Americans to Chester for a few days without telling anyone. She seemed rather an odd sort of woman with some very strange habits and ways.
An 18 year old youth from Maryport slipped and fell after climbing EASY GULLY. He sustained a broken ankle. The Team carried him on a stretcher and then by his own transport to a Barrow-in-Furness hospital. Weather conditions: DRY, WARM, CLEAR, WET PATCHES UNDERFOOT.
A search was started when a 43 year old man from Sheffield was reported missing by his friend, who had left him at the summit of Hart Crag at 4.00 p.m. Four more teams and S.A.R.D.A. were called in at first light to continue the search. The search was called off when the man was found on Windermere railway station at 10.30 a.m.
Footnote: This man had spent all night in a Guest House in Grasmere and was returning home by train. There seems to have been some disagreement between these so-called friends.
The Team assisted the local Police to recover the body of a 45 year old Windermere man, who had taken his dog for a walk on the previous night on the low fells around Windermere.
Footnote: This could not be classed as a genuine mountain accident. Weather conditions: DRY, SUNNY, CLEAR.
The Team was asked to assist S.A.R.D.A. and 3 other Mountain Rescue Teams to search for three 16 year old females, who had become separated from a party of 8 fellwalers when on a fell walk from Duddon to Borrowdale. The girls were found at 2.50 a.m. at Styhead uninjured — benighted and lost.
Footnote: Basic failure to keep party together at all times, especially in poor conditions. This will repeat itself again and again.
Weather conditions: LOW CLOUD, MIST, RAIN, GALE FORCE WINDS, DARK, VERY WET UNDERFOOT.
A 19 year old youth from Farnham slipped and fell on the screes, sustaining head and arm injuries. The Team escorted the youth down the fell, he was seen by the Team Doctor, then by own transport to Kendal hospital. Footnote: Screes seem to take their toll of fellwalkers. Great care should be taken when descending them. Weather conditions: DRY, CLEAR, SHOWERS NOW AND AGAIN.
A 14 year old youth from Fishburn, Co. Durham fell 15 ft down a ravine and sustained head injuries. The Team carried the Youth on a stretcher to an ambulance and then to Lancaster.
Footnote: This was a well organised group, but a simple slip resulted in a nasty accident.
Weather conditions: DRY, LOW CLOUD, DULL, WET UNDERFOOT.
A 17 year old youth from Flixton, Manchester collapsed with torn ligaments and muscles in his right leg. The Team carried the youth 1 Yz miles on a stretcher and then by own transport to hospital.
Footnote: The youth had attempted to walk with his injuries, but the severe pain had been too much.
Weather conditions: CLEAR, SUNNY, COOL BREEZE, DRY.
The Team and S.A.R.D.A. searched the above areas when it was reported that two male student climbers from Durham University were overdue when it was time for the coach to leave Langdale at 8.30 p.m. The search was called off at 1.00 a.m. the next morning when they turned up at Durham.
Footnote: If climbers and walkers gave a little more thought to their actions, it would save Rescue Teams a considerable amount of expense and time. These two climbers had HITCH HIKED home without telling anybody.
A 36 year old man from Kew, Surrey fell 250 ft. whilst abseiling off Raven Crag. He sustained injuries from which he DIED. The Team recovered his body.
Footnote: The knot in his tape belay sling came undone. Knots on any slings
should be checked regularly.
Weather conditions: GOOD - SUNSHINE, FINE, DRY ROCK.
A search was started by S.A.R.D.A., Patterdale and ourselves when a male fellwalker from Macclesfield failed to turn up in Patterdale after leaving the Grasmere Y.H.A. He left a route card at Grasmere to say he would be going to Patterdale via Helvellyn and Swirral Edge.
The overnight search was called off when he turned in for work at 7.00 a.m.
A search was started when a 33 year old man from Kendal had become separated from the main school party. He was found by the Team on a road in the Langdale Valley safe and well.
Footnote: This seems rather funny — it's usually children that become
separated from adults.
Weather conditions: COLD, DRY, MISTY - WET UNDERFOOT.
A 17 year old youth from Manchester received burns and scalds to his foot after a pan of boiling water was knocked over. He was carried down the fellside on a stretcher, seen by the Team Doctor, then taken home by his parents.
Footnote: Any kind of camping stove and the utensils used in making a meal should be treated with the utmost care. Weather conditions: DARK, COLD, FINE. GROUND WET IN PLACES.
A 31 year old Preston man slipped and fell 200 ft. after completing a rock climb. He sustained injuries from which he DIED. The Team recovered his body.
Footnote: This climber had finished his climb and was descending when the accident happened — he was very experienced. Weather conditions: DULL, CLEAR AT TIMES - WET ROCK IN PLACES.
A search was started when fellwalkers raised the alarm in Patterdale that a group of 8 A.T.C. and 2 adults were suffering from exposure between Hart Crag and Fairfield. Patterdale and Penrith M.R.T. assisted and searched all known escape routes. Search called off at 8.15 p.m. when the A.T.C. Group walked off the fells, unaided, in Grasmere. Footnote: Why this inexperienced group had set out on a high level walk Nobody seems to know. The weather had been bad all day in addition to deep snow and ice at high levels. This group had no crampons or ice axes.
A 26 year old man from Peterbourgh fell on the screes and sustained leg injuries. He was carried by the Team on a stretcher and then by private car to hospital.
Footnote: A stone was dislodged by a member of the same party which made this man fall.
Weather conditions: Rain and mist at times. Very wet underfoot.
A 30 year old woman and a 20 year old man fell about 100 ft. while snow and ICE climbing near the summit of Harrison Stickle. Both climbers sustained injuries and were flown by R.A.F. Helicopter to Whitehaven Hospital.
Footnote: The accident was caused by a slip as belays were being changed on
a ledge.
An 18 year old male student from Sheffield slipped and fell about 700 ft. He sustained two broken legs, pelvic, spinal & facial injuries. He was carried on a stretcher to Patterdale by Kendal, Penrith, Patterdale and Langdale Teams. Weather conditions: DARK, COLD, SNOW & ICE, SNOWING AT TIMES.
A 30 year old female from Oxford slipped and fell 250 ft. near DOVE CRAG. She sustained serious multiple injuries. The Team assisted Patterdale M.R.T. in stretchering the lady down the fell and then by ambulance to Carlisle hospital.
Weather conditions: DARK - VERY COLD. SNOW AT TIMES. ICE AND DEEP SNOW UNDERFOOT.
A 30 year old man from Morecambe fell off a sledge. He received facial and chest injuries. He was carried of the hill by stretcher, before receiving treatment by one of the Team Doctors. Weather conditions: Very Cold. ICE & SNOW. Clear. Dry.
A 25 year old man from Liverpool slipped and fell on ICE and sustained leg and pelvic injuries. He was carried by the Team, assisted by Patterdale M.R.T., on'a stretcher to an ambulance, then to hospital at Kendal. Footnote: No crampons or ICE AXE. Weather conditions: As in Call-out No. 5.
A 24 year old man from London slipped and fell 20 ft. in snow and ICE. He sustained a dislocated leg & spinal injuries. He was carried on a stretcher to an awaiting ambulance at Brimmer Head Farm, then to Lancaster Hospital. The Team was assisted by Kendal M.R.T. & Leeds Outdoor Pursuits Club.
Footnote: No crampons & ICE AXE. Weather conditions: As in Call-out No. 5.
Four men aged from 19 years — 23 years from Thornton Cleveleys, Lanes, fell between 750 ft. — 1,200 ft. from FAIRFIELD near the summit on snow and ice.
1 Man DIED
1 Man MULTIPLE INJURIES (SINCE DIED)
1 Man SERIOUS INJURIES
1 Man NO INJURIES - JUST SHOCK
The Team carried all the injured men on stretchers down to Grasmere assisted by the Keswick M.R.T. then by ambulance to Lancaster Hospital. R.A.F. Helicopter assistance could not be given due to BLIZZARDS AND MIST.
Footnote: No ICE AXES or CRAMPONS. TEAMS had to be called in from Keswick, Kendal, R.A.F. Leeming M.R.T.
A man from Nottingham slipped and fell 300 ft. on ice and snow. He sustained a broken ankle and suffered exposure. He was attended to by the Team, and Patterdale M.R.T. then flown to hospital in Carlisle by R.A.F. Helicopter from Boulmer.
Footnote: Severe ICE & SNOW conditions made fellwalking very dangerous. Weather conditions: DEEP SNOW & ICE, VERY COLD, DULL - BLIZZARDS AT TIMES
Two men were reported missing in the Bowfell area. A search was made by the Team & S.A.R.D.A. Search called off at -10.00 a.m. when the two men turned up in Langdale. Weather conditions: Cold, Wet, Misty - ICE AND SNOW UNDERFOOT.
A 64 year old man from Stockport slipped on the ICE AND SNOW sustaining a broken leg. The Team carried him on a stretcher to a waiting ambulance, then to hospital at Kendal.
Weather conditions: Rain and Snow, Misty, Dull - ICE AND DEEP SNOW UNDERFOOT.
The Team assisted Coniston M.R.T. in recovering the body of a 26 year old Bolton man when he fell 340 ft. down a disused mine shaft at TAYLOR LEVEL MINE, RED DELL, CONISTON.
Footnote: This man had climbed over a fence around the mine shaft — Two years earlier a similar accident occured — this time the victim lived. Weather conditions: Rain, Mist, Cold, Darkness.
A search was started by the team when 10 schoolboys and 2 adults from Everton failed to return from a fellwalk on the Crinkle Crags area, Langdale. Team members with dogs searched many valleys and fell tops. They were found unharmed, but slightly exposed and exhausted at 3.00 a.m., near Green Hole, Higher Esk. The team escorted them down to Brotherelkeld, Eskdale, and then by ambulances to Langdale , where they had a meal and changed to dry clothes. Team assisted by Eskdale OBMS and Patterdale.
Footnote: This group started off far too late in the day for a long distance walk.
A 32 year old man from Dalton-in-Furness slipped on ice covered ground at Shelter Crags, Langdale. He sustained a leg injury. The team stretchered him down the fellside, and then by friends car to Barrow hospital. Footnote: Once again, ice accounted for this accident. The only sensible answer to ice is a simple crampon fixed to the boots.
Weather conditions: Cold, fine, snow at times, darkness. Ice and snow underfoot. Ground conditions very dangerous.
The team was called to assist Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team when a 36 year old man and his 6 year old daughter from Mirfield, Yorks., slipped and fell near the summit of Helvellyn.
Both were found DEAD the following morning at 8.30 a.m. They had fallen 400 feet from the ridge.
Footnote: The outcome of this incident was very sad indeed. The fell tops were very dangerous, with ice and snow covering a large area.
Weather conditions: Very cold, dry, darkness. Ice and snow at all levels.
A 14 year old school boy from Wellingborough collapsed, due to exposure/exhaustion near Green-Up Edge. The team had to search for this boy before carrying him three miles on a stretcher to Grasmere. and then by ambulance to hospital in Kendal.
Footnote: The grid-reference given to the team by the informants was 1 mile out. It was then that a large area had to be searched before the group was finally located.
Weather conditions: Cold, wet, windy, darkness. Snow and ice underfoot, with wet patches.
A 45 year old man from Chorley slipped and fell on wet grass at Blind Tarn Moss, Grasmere. He sustained a fractured ankle. The team carried him down the fell on a stretcher, and then by friend's car to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: Some team members had to divert from Call-out No. 35 on Gibson Knott to attend to this rescue. Weather conditions: Dull, rain at times, cold. Very wet underfoot.
A search was made of Gibson Knott, Grasmere, when a male fellwalker reported someone or something falling from Gibson Knott. Search called off when nothing was found.
Footnote: The informant was definite that he saw something fall. False alarm with good intent.
Weather conditions: Dull, rain at times, mist. Very wet underfoot.
A search was started when four people were reported missing on a walk from Langdale to Esk Hause, via Rossett Gill. The search was called off when they walked off the fell the next morning at 9.45 a.m., unharmed. — but LUCKY. They had spent the night near Hell Gill in Oxendale. Footnote: This group (1 man and 3 women) was still going up Rossett Gill at 4.30 p.m., with only one hour of daylight left They had no protective cloth¬ing, torch, food or spare clothing.
A 57 year old female from Newcastle-under-Lyme slipped on a path at Tongue Gill, Grasmere. She sustained a fractured ankle. The team carried her down the fell on a stretcher, and then by ambulance to hospital in Kendal,
Footnote: This lady had all the right equipment — a genuine accident Weather conditions: Overcast, dull, rain at times. Very wet underfoot
A 22 year old female from Cambridge fell 20 feet down a gulley on Middlefell, Langdale, after completing her rock climb. She sustained a serious compound fracture of the lower leg. The team carried her on a stretcher, and then by ambulance to Lancaster hospital with police escort. Footnote: Sadly for this young lady, this was her first attempt at rock climbing. The utmost care must be taken when descending after a rock climb, as this is when most accidents happen.
Weather conditions: Good, clear, dry with moderate wind. Dry and loose rock underfoot.
The team was called out by the police to investigate a large fire in Easy Gulley, Pavey Ark. No persons were found to be involved, only burning grass and fell, ranging over 150 feet.
The team returned off the 'hill' at 12.00 midnight. Footnote: From the valley below, the fire could have been mistaken for a crashed aircraft or tents etc. The fire was a complete mystery. Weather conditions: Moderate wind, dry with showers. Dry underfoot.
A 20 year old male from Barton, Bedfordshire slipped on screes while descending from Raven Crag, Langdale. He sustained a compound fracture of the right leg, plus facial injuries. The team carried him down on a stretcher and then by ambulance to Lancaster hospital. Footnote: A popular crag, fast becoming loose and polished through human erosion. Weather conditions: Dry, hot, clear. Very dry underfoot.
A 23 year old female from Doncaster collapsed with exhaustion and migraine at the head of Mosedale (237 041). She was carried by the team on a stretcher to Cockley Beck, and then by ambulance to hospital in Kendal. Footnote: This young lady was generally unfit for an expedition of such length, plus two nights camping out at high level in very hot weather. Weather conditions: Very hot, sunny, no wind. Dry underfoot.
An 18 year old female from Bolton was thrown to the deck of a boat by the wash from another speedboat by Wray Bay, Lake Windermere. She sustained serious spinal injuries. The team used a special spinal splint before lifting her from the boat. She was taken by ambulance to Lancaster hospital. Footnote: The Team's specialised medical equipment can be used, and is, for any accident, and not only for fell walkers and climbers. Weather conditions: Fine, warm, clear.
A 21 year old female from Bromsgrove, slipped off a path near Eagle Crag, Easedale, Grasmere. She sustained a severely cut knee, and was carried by the team on a stretcher, and then by sitting car to Kendal hospital. Footnote: This young lady had all the right equipment. Genuine accident. Weather conditions: Clear sunshine, dry. Wet patches underfoot.
A 12 year old school boy from Washington, Durham, collapsed with a virus infection at Tongue Gill, Grasmere. He was carried down the fell on a stretcher and then to hospital in Kendal by ambulance.
Footnote: Yet another very good group who did everything right when faced with a serious problem on the fells.
Weather conditions: Dull, dry, clear. Dry with wet patches underfoot.
A 56 year old man from Manchester slipped on the wet fellside and fractured his ankle/leg on Lingmoor Fell, Langdale. He was carried on a stretcher by team members and taken to hospital in Kendal by ambulance. Footnote: Smooth soled boots could have been the cause of this accident, as the fellside was very wet and slippery. Weather conditions: Dull, rain at times with low mist — very wet underfoot.
A 14 year old school boy from London collapsed with chest pains at Grizedale Tarn, Grasmere. He was carried down on a stretcher and then taken by ambulance to Kendal hospital.
Footnote: This young boy had a history of chest trouble. His friends had done everything right, making him comfortable and sending for help. A very praise¬worthy group, and a lesson from which some adults could learn. Weather conditions: Very wet, low mist, ground conditions — saturated
A 17 year old school boy from Westbury slipped near Grizedale Tarn, Grasmere, and sustained an injured femur plus foot injuries (see footnote). He was escorted down the fell by the team after electing to walk. Seen by team doctor and allowed to go home later.
Footnote: This injured boy was made to walk down, unaccompanied, by two teachers. There is also a suspicion that he was exhausted, due to his rucksack being overweight, and his walking boots, which were good, were not his own and a poor fit, and he had no waterproof trousers. Weather conditions: Very wet, low mist, cold.
A 59 year old man from Leicester slipped on the fellside near Eagle Crag, Easedale, Grasmere, and sustained a fractured femur. He was carried on a stretcher down the fellside by the team, and then by ambulance to Lancaster hospital.
Footnote: Once again, smooth soled boots could have been the cause of this accident. Weather conditions: Dull, fine, rather cold. Dry with wet patches underfoot.
A 21 year old female from Newcastle-upon-Tyne slipped and fell off a path at Stickle Tarn, Langdale, sustaining a fractured ankle. She was conveyed down the fell on a stretcher by the team, and then taken to hospital in Kendal.
Footnote: This accident happened whilst she was assisting an injured male walker who was in the same party. Weather conditions: Fine, overcast, clear. Dry with wet patches underfoot.