Three Sarda dogs took part in the search

Mountain rescuers warned walkers to carry the right gear and a torch after a walker was found safe following a major search involving three teams this evening.

The man was found unharmed but cold as felltop temperatures dropped to near freezing.

Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team was joined by colleagues from the Duddon and Furness team and the Langdale and Ambleside team in the search for the lone walker, who was reported missing at about 8pm this evening, Monday.

Three Search and Rescue Dogs Association dogs and handlers from the Langdale and Ambleside and Duddon and Furness teams helped in the search for the man, who went missing while walking between Windermere and Patterdale.

He was found at 11pm near the Knott, above the Hayeswater dam. A spokesperson for the Patterdale team said: “The weather had been good during the day but the temperature fell to just above freezing in the early evening, leaving the man very cold.”

Martin Cotterell, Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team leader, said: “At this time of year, when darkness falls early, it is even more important that walkers carry the right equipment with them. This should include a torch, whistle and spare warm clothing in addition to a map and compass.”