POLICE became involved in a mountain rescue incident at Grizedale Forest when it was discovered those involved had taken recreational drugs and there were reports of an offensive weapon.

Coniston Mountain Rescue Team was called by the North West Ambulance Service to four men who had been wild camping.

The mountain rescue team said on Facebook: "They had all taken recreational drugs, but one had reacted badly and was unconscious, but later drifted in and out of consciousness.

"It then became apparent that the scene would not be safe due to a report of the use of an offensive weapon, and therefore Cumbria Police took over the incident."

Mountain rescuers joined police, including firearms officers, in convoy through Grizedale Forest.

The group was located and once the police had ascertained it was safe to approach, each of the men were medically assessed and confirmed fit to be escorted off the moor.

The incident, on February 16, involved 20 members of Coniston MRT and lasted three hours.

Police were called at 12.12pm on Saturday, February 16, to the report of concern for the welfare a man at Grizedale Forest, the man was reported to have a bladed article.

Police, ambulance and Mountain Rescue attended the scene.

Armed officers were deployed as a precaution.

On attendance, police found the man not in possession of a bladed article.

There was no perceived risk to the public and there were no injuries.

A 20-year-old man from Manchester, was arrested on suspicion of being in possession of a Class A drug and a public order offence. Following inquiries no further action was taken relating to the public order offence. He received a caution for being in possession of a Class A drug.