The Coastguard helicopter approaches to transfer the injured man. Photo: Keswick MRT

A walker was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries after falling more than 100ft on a Lake District mountain.

The 62-year-old was with a family group on Robinson on Friday when he slipped and fell about 35m (115ft) into a gully while coming down the north side of the fell.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was alerted about 15.35pm and scrambled two of its vehicles after reports the man had suffered serious multiple injuries. A third team vehicle followed shortly afterwards.

A team requested support from the Prestwick Coastguard helicopter and the Great North Air Ambulance.

A team spokesperson said: “The team was on scene within 50 minutes, and the air ambulance joined them swiftly.

“Because of the casualty’s location, it became clear that the best course of action would be for the Coastguard helicopter to winch the casualty from the scene, and then land close to the air ambulance so the casualty could be transferred.

“The casualty would then have the benefit of the expert medical support available on the air ambulance. Team members assisted with the transfer between the aircraft, and the patient was then airlifted to the Cumberland Infirmary for further treatment.

“The team wishes to express its gratitude to both aircrews for their prompt response, as it saved a large amount of time and effort in recovering the casualty, and gave him the best possible chance of a good outcome.”

The three hour rescue involved 18 volunteers from Keswick MRT.