A walker died when he fell from Malham Cove

A walker has died after falling from the top of a limestone crag in the Yorkshire Dales.

The 72-year-old was walking above Malham Cove when he fell to his death from the 80m (260ft) cliff.

The Clapham-based Cave Rescue Organisation was called out after the walker, from Ossett in West Yorkshire, was seen to fall at the cove about 4.30pm yesterday, Wednesday.

North Yorkshire Police said the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The rescue team said its members carried out searches of the Halfway Ledge as well as the top and foot of the cove to aid police investigations.

Police appealed for information from anyone who was in the area.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and no one else is being sought in connection with the incident.

“However, police enquiries are being carried out on behalf of the coroner to investigate the circumstances leading up to the tragic death.

“The man was wearing black walking trousers, lumberjack checked shirt, black sleeveless jacket, black North Face walking shoes and carrying a blue rucksack.

Detective Sergeant Steve Menzies of Harrogate CID said: “Although I do not believe there are suspicious circumstances surrounding this death, I urge anyone who was in the area at the time and may have seen someone matching the description of the man who died to get in touch with the police as soon as possible, so that I can establish his movements prior to the incident.”

Police said they are not yet in a position to name the walker.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Skipton police on 101, select option 2 and ask for Simon Crossley. Alternatively, information can be emailed to police.