Rescue team's plea after call-out to find Lake District walking couple who did not have a torch (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Rescue team's plea after call-out to find Lake District walking couple who did not have a torch

11:54am Wednesday 2nd January 2013 in News

WALKERS have been told to head out with ‘essential kit’ after a New Year’s Day call-out for Lake District mountain rescuers.

A couple lost in the dark on Scandale Pass, Kirkstone, did not have a torch with them and had intermittent signal on their mobile phone.

After being contacted by police, Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team sent two search parties, including two search dogs, to locate the pair.

The couple left Sykeside Campsite to go for a walk before lunch but became lost when darkness fell at around 5.15pm so called 999 for help.

Rescuers found them nearly three hours later at 8pm and escorted them back to their campsite.

A Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team spokesman said: “Walkers are reminded that a torch, together with a map and compass, are essential kit for all fell walks.”