Rescuers at the scene on Dove Crag. Photo: Patterdale MRT
Rescuers have warned that only well equipped experienced mountaineers should attempt to reach a Lake District cave during the current wintry spell.
It follows the rescue of a man who fell while trying to reach Priest’s Hole on Dove Crag on Saturday.
Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team was called out about 4.55pm after the 28-year-old suffered a dislocated shoulder in a fall on the mountain.
A team spokesperson said: “The injured man along with his companion were fortunate to be found by two very experienced mountaineers, one of which was a doctor and they were able to give the team valuable information prior to ascending Dove Crag.
“Given the conditions under foot, the terrain and the nature of the injury the team made the decision to call in Her Majesty’s Coastguard helicopter for assistance.
“The stricken faller was given intravenous analgesia by two of the team doctors and treated accordingly.
“He was then winched from the scene by the Coastguard and taken to Carlisle infirmary for further treatment.”
The rescue lasted 7½ hours and involved 13 members of Patterdale MRT.
The spokesperson added: “The volunteers from Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team would like to remind people that given the current full winter conditions only very experienced mountaineers with the right equipment should be attempting to access Priest’s Hole.”
The number of walkers heading for the cave increased following the BBC One series Secret Britain in which it featured. Patterdale MRT has been called to several stranded and injured people attempting the journey. One man, Kevin Ryan, fell 500ft to his death at the site.
