Rescuers use ice-axes and crampons on the steep snow slope. Photo: Pete Baines/Wasdale MRT

A walker has died after falling a ‘considerable distance’ on England’s highest mountain.

Three mountaineers found the man on Scafell Pike and tended to him until rescuers reached the scene.

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team was called out about 5.30pm on Sunday and was joined by members of the Duddon and Furness MRT. The Prestwick Coastguard helicopter also flew to the site on the south side of Mickledore.

Richard Warren of the Wasdale team said the man had suffered multiple injuries when he fell a considerable distance down a snow slope.

Mr Warren said: “This very challenging eight-hour rescue, high on the flanks of Scafell Pike with steep compacted snow and ice conditions was also undertaken at very low temperatures.

“Although every effort was made by the team and several mountaineers who found the injured lone walker, along with the best efforts of the search and rescue winchman on scene and helicopter crew in getting the casualty to [the Royal Victoria Infirmary] in Newcastle, the casualty did not survive and sadly passed away in hospital.

“The team would like to offer their sincere condolences to the family of the deceased walker.

“The team also wants to express their thanks to the crew of the Coastguard helicopter which lifted a number of team members who were already high up the mountain to the scene to provide critical casualty care.

“Thanks must also go to the three mountaineers who found the injured walker, raised the alarm and kept him warm and alive until the team arrived.”

The Wasdale team also went to the aid of a woman who suffered a leg injury while walking on Scafell Pike on Saturday.