Dow Crag, scene of Monday's rescue

Rescuers warned anyone heading for the Lake District fells to go prepared, as much of the area’s high ground is now in winter condition.

Coniston Mountain Rescue Team said warm clothing, an ice axe and crampons and the ability to use them were essential for walkers venturing above the snow line.

The warning followed the rescue yesterday of a man who got stuck while scrambling on Dow Crag.

A Coniston MRT spokesperson said: “The team would like to remind walkers that although conditions in the valley may be relatively pleasant, the high fells are, in many cases, in winter condition, especially where the sun does not penetrate.”

The volunteer team was called out at 1.20pm on Monday after the man became cragfast on the South Rake gully on Dow Crag, near Coniston.

Rescuers said conditions were cold and slippery, with ice and snow underfoot. 13 team members took part in the rescue.

“The man was roped down the gully and accompanied down the famous Dow Crags scree and then off the fell to one of the team’s vehicles,” the spokesperson added.

The previous day, a pair of walkers were brought to safety after getting lost on the Yewdale Fells.

The couple were coming down from Wetherlam when they became disoriented. Coniston MRT was alerted at 4.30pm.

The team found the couple on Gate Crag and walked them to safety. 16 team members were involved in the operation.