Zac Poulton at work in his Mountain Hardwear gear on Helvellyn

Outdoor brand Mountain Hardwear pledged continuing support to the three mountaineers who make daily winter trips to the summit of England’s third-highest mountain.

The company is currently in a three-year partnership with the Lake District National Park Authority to supply clothing to the felltop assessors who provide weather and terrain reports on Helvellyn.

The trio also provide winter skills courses for the walking public and advise hillgoers on safety while out on the mountain. Their reports also form the basis of the authority’s online and phone Weatherline service for Lakeland hillgoers.

Each day from December to Easter, one of the three makes the journey to the summit of Helvellyn, taking temperature and wind readings, recording weather conditions and evaluating any snowpack and ice that may be on the routes.

Jon Bennet, Zac Poulton and Graham Uney were kitted out with Mountain Hardwear gear, including clothing, equipment and accessories.

Mountain Hardwear said: “Although this season has been mild in comparison to 2018, which saw the arrival of the ‘Beast from the East’, weather conditions can change in an instant on the Lake District fells and mountains, such as Scafell Pike and Helvellyn, and the felltop assessors have to be prepared for any eventuality.

“The rain in the Lake District can be a constant, which has been perfect for the team to experience the waterproof and moisture management benefits of Mountain Hardwear’s new Gore-Tex range.”

The three felltop assessors: from left, Jon Bennett, Graham Uney and Zac Poulton

Jon Bennett said: “During the winter period there’s no let-up on the number of visitors to the Lake District, who are drawn by the dramatic landscape and unbeatable views.

“However, the weather and ground conditions can change very quickly on the high fells and we need to communicate these conditions to the public in a timely manner. To do this, we need to be able to safely get to the top of Helvellyn every single day, often in harsh winter weather.

“We couldn’t do this without being fully prepared and equipped in Mountain Hardwear products.”

Rhys Henderson of Mountain Hardwear UK said: “Getting to the top of mountains like Helvellyn and assessing the risk on Striding Edge, often in arduous winter conditions, is what Mountain Hardwear products are made for.

“Climbers around the world rely on our ranges to achieve their mountaineering goals, from 8,000m peaks to Scottish winter climbing and scrambling in the Lake District. The incredible work the felltop assessors carry out is no exception and we will continue to support the team with our latest garments and equipment, for many winter seasons to come.”

Graham Uney announced at the end of this season that he would be stepping down from his felltop assessor role to concentrate on his mountaineering business.