The unassuming entrance to Boxhead Pot on Leck Fell. Photo: Langcliffe CC-BY-SA-4.0

Three cavers had to be rescued from a western Dales system after being left underground.

The two 21-year-old women and a 19-year-old man were attempting a route on Leck Fell in Lancashire on Saturday when they were marooned in caves.

The Clapham-based Cave Rescue Organisation was called out about 6.30pm to search for the trio, who were initially thought to be on the surface. A search dog and handler also joined the operation.

A rescue team spokesperson said: “Three cavers were left underground on a Boxhead Pot to It’s a Cracker! exchange trip when they missed their way and were inadvertently overtaken by the de-rigging party.

“Those returning to the surface were adamant that everyone was out, so a fell search was begun. A CRO party also went underground and found the missing people, cold but otherwise unharmed.”

The Caernarfon Coastguard rescue helicopter was scrambled but turned back when it became apparent it was not needed.

The team was also called into action to help walkers over the weekend. Two walkers attempting the Yorkshire Three Peaks called for help about 3.45pm on Friday. The spokesperson said they reported themselves in difficulty near the summit of Whernside and were frightened.

“Conditions on the day included some snow showers and heavy rain. Following a discussion with them on their mobile phone and the use of Sarloc to obtain a GPS location for them, a Land Rover and team members were dispatched to collect the pair.”

The following day, a 57-year-old walker called for help after losing her map in low cloud and strong winds while walking between Ingleborough and Park Fell.

The spokesperson said: “She was able to give a grid reference from her mobile phone, but was otherwise ‘lost’. A small group of CRO members walked up to her and guided her to safety.”