The man fell from the ridge leading to Steeple, above Ennerdale. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

A man has died after falling from a ridge on a Lake District fell.

Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team was called out in the early hours of Sunday after the alarm was raised by the 65-year-old’s friend.

The man had slipped and fallen about 260ft from the ridge between Steeple and Little Scoat Fell above Ennerdale. It is believed he was attempting the Joss Naylor Lakeland Challenge at the time.

The Cockermouth team was called out about 40 minutes past midnight, and the Prestwick Coastguard helicopter also flew to the area but was unable to help in the operation due to very low cloud on the fells.

A Cockermouth MRT spokesperson said: “The alarm was raised by the walker’s companion who remained on the ridge.

“Team members ascended Steeple ridge from the Ennerdale valley to the informant’s location and roped down some 80m to the casualty’s position.

“Tragically, the man sustained fatal injuries from his fall. All the team’s thoughts are with the walker’s companion, his family and friends.”

The incident involved 25 volunteers from Cockermouth MRT.

The Joss Naylor Lakeland Challenge is a 77km (48-mile) route running from Pooley Bridge to Wasdale and involves 5,182m (17,000ft) of ascent. It was first run by celebrated fellrunner and Wasdale farmer Joss Naylor and is open to those over the age of 50.