Rescuers used Nethermost Pike's east ridge (right) to reach the injured woman

Mountain rescuers were treated to a round of drinks by the grateful partner of a rescued woman.

Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team enjoyed the unexpected liquid reward after accompanying the man from the fells after his walking companion had been airlifted to hospital after injuring her ankle on a Lakeland mountain.

The team was called at about 3.00pm today, Tuesday, when the walker slipped on the ridge path between Nethermost Pike and Dollywagon Pike. 14 volunteers took part in the rescue, with the team’s Land Rovers being driven to the head of the Grisedale valley.

The rescue team then climbed the east ridge of Nethermost Pike to reach the stricken walker.

A spokesperson for Patterdale MRT said: “After assessment and splinting the woman was stretchered down towards Dunmail Raise. Once below the cloud level the air ambulance was able to meet the stretcher party and evacuate the casualty to hospital in Carlisle.

“The team walked the casualty’s partner off the fell and he treated them to a round of drinks at the local pub.”