Rescuers at the scene on the Kinder Scout plateau. Photo: Buxton MRT

An injured walker was stretchered for four hours from Kinder Scout in a rescue operation lasting 7½ hours altogether.

Three mountain rescue teams and a Coastguard helicopter took part in the operation to help the woman, who was part of a large group walking on the interior of the summit plateau on Tuesday.

A passing walker initially went to the aid of the group of 10 adults and three children on the Peak District’s highest hill.

The walker, who had been in the early stages of a trip along the Pennine Way, put up his tent and provided a sleeping bag for the woman as the weather worsened.

Kinder Mountain Rescue Team was alerted about 2.35pm and requested help from colleagues from the Buxton team at the site between near Crowden Head. Rescuers used the Sarloc smartphone system to pinpoint the position of the injured woman who had suffered a suspected broken ankle.

Bad weather and low cloud prevented the helicopter reaching the remote site, but its crew was able to airlift rescuers part way up Crowden Clough, from where they made their way on foot to the group of walkers. A Buxton MRT spokesperson said: “Due to the onset of the weather a long carry-off was required and members from Edale Mountain Rescue Team were called to assist.”

A Kinder team spokesperson said: “We reached the casualty on foot and provided first aid. The rest of the party were warmed in our tent and then walked off the hill. We had a long, four-hour stretcher carry to a waiting land ambulance at Upper Booth.

“Huge thanks to the walkers who provided assistance, Buxton MRT and Edale MRT for the carry off particularly, and to the S92 [helicopter] for making the attempt.”

Remaining members of the walking group were accompanied by two Buxton team members to rescue vehicles at Upper Booth.

The Buxton MRT spokesperson said: “All team members headed home just before 10pm after a very long and successful multi-team response.”