The man collapsed while walking in Deepdale. Photo: Karl and Ali CC-BY-SA-2.0

A walker was airlifted from a Lakeland path after collapsing and losing consciousness.

The 71-year-old from Preston in Lancashire was walking with friends in Dovedale, near Patterdale today when he passed out.

Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team was called out about 1.10pm.

A team spokesperson said: “The team and its fist aiders quickly made their way to the fallen gentleman and assessed his condition.

“They were then joined by North West Ambulance Service paramedics who also assessed the casualty.

“Due to his conscious levels and poor health the air ambulance was requested for evacuation. The team stretchered the gentlemen off the fell and to the waiting air ambulance, which then flew him to the Royal Lancaster Infirmary.”

The rescue lasted 3½ hours and involved 10 volunteer team members.

The Patterdale team had earlier been alerted after a 71-year-old woman was reported missing in the Aira Force area.

The team spokesperson said: “During the planning phases and while discussions with the informant were taking place the lady was located safe and well having taken a different route than planned.”