A GROUP of good samaritans spent hours on top of an iconic Lake District fell being battered by harsh January weather to repair a 40-year-old landmark monument damaged by vandals.

The steel-plated viewing indicator on top of the structure, outlining the directions of local fells and towns, was ripped off by the wreckers and caused a storm on social media.

Gordie Oliver, of Bassenthwaite, was among the group of five volunteers who went up Skiddaw to fix the indicator, which was placed there in 1977 as part of the Queen's Silver Jubilee celebrations. His father, Des, was a national park warden at the time and was involved in its siting.

"As a child one of my earliest memories is attending the unveiling ceremony and I have always had a strong connection with it," said Mr Oliver, who runs Air Ventures paragliding school.

"I was dismayed when I saw it had been damaged, and it motivated me to organise a repair as soon as possible and prevent any further damage.

"On inspection it was apparent it had been done intentionally, requiring some force and equipment with the broken top part of the cairn weighing around 70kg.

"After some facing work the steel viewing indicator fitted back into place and I hope the repair stands the test of time and fell walkers will enjoy its presence for many years to come."

National park protection charity Friends of the Lake District said it was important everyone took responsibility for looking after the area and praised the work of volunteers.

"We are lucky to have so much access in the lakes to privately owned land like Skiddaw and need to treat it with respect, and with regard for others who wish to enjoy it," said a spokesperson. "We need everyone to play a part in looking after the land, landowners, visitors and walkers. We are fortunate to have so many great volunteers."

When the story was reported on The Westmorland Gazette website, Mintcake Johnny said: "I am absolutely astounded that anyone would do such a thing. By the very fact they could be bothered enough to climb the peak suggests some affection for the fells."